Model For Creating Sustainability of a Model Moral and Ethical Community in Khao Sam Sib Hab Community, Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

This research aimed to: (1) synthesize a model for sustaining moral and ethical communities, (2) develop a model suitable for the local context, and (3) implement and drive the sustainability process in a real-life setting. This qualitative study employed Participatory Action Research (PAR). The sample comprised 45 participants community leaders, monks, teachers, youth, women’s groups, and local agencies selected through purposive sampling. Research instruments included in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, and a follow-up satisfaction survey. Data were analyzed through content analysis and validated using triangulation.

The findings revealed that (1) the synthesized sustainability model consists of four dimensions: moral spiritual, social, economic, and environmental–cultural; (2) the developed model produced five prototype activities “Rice Planting for Dhamma,” “Bamboo Shoot Dessert Charity Kitchen,” “Intergenerational Dhamma Circle,” “Life-based Dhamma Storytelling,” and “Basket Weaving Workshop” all of which align with Buddhist principles and the community’s way of life; and (3) the implementation followed a six-step cycle, resulting in high community participation, the establishment of a working committee and youth leaders, and the integration of activities into the community calendar with continuous funding support. The key knowledge contribution is the SĀM Model (Sustainable Ācāra Model), which comprises: S – Setting in Real Life (moral activities embedded in familiar community settings, enabling natural learning), Ā – Ānāpana-based Design (mindfulness-based activities fostering awareness and internalization of virtues), and M – Mutual Empowerment (spaces for intergenerational exchange and mutual moral growth). This model offers a replicable framework for cultivating sustainable moral conduct in other communities.