THE INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY IN THAILAND’S NORTHEASTERN REGION PROVINCES

Abstract

The goal of this study is to explore the innovative approach to Sufficiency Economy at a household level. The data was collected by the use of questionnaires with 2,000 respondents as well as the interviews with community leaders from 54 Sufficiency Economy model villages in 5 provinces (Udon Thani Province, Nong Bua Lam Phu Province, Nong Khai Province, Bueng Kan Province, and Loei Province). The research findings revealed that the local people had faith in the leaders who devoted their time, money, and intelligence to the development of local communities. In other words, the community leaders should be the role-models of success for their people. With regards to the application of the Sufficiency Economy philosophy, saving money was the most applicable method at the household level, while working part-time was the least applicable method. Self-sufficient living was mentally learned and practiced the most, but it was economically learned and practiced the least. Moreover, it was suggested that “E-San (Northeastern)” family structure should integrate the older people’s way of life with the younger generations’ lifestyle in order to promote a sufficient and sustainable way of living. Accordingly, the model of “Great Leaders, Six Directions of Sufficient Way of Living” was formulated. The directions included 1) having a good mindset, 2) understanding the nature and the environment, 3) reducing expenses, 4) supporting each other, 5) having empathy, and 6) saving money.