Integrating tradition and sustainability: Crafting with Ton Bai Romkao in Phang Nga Province, Thailand

For the local communities of Thailand, traditional craft is a potential vehicle for sustainable economic development. This is a qualitative investigation to study the previously unreported characteristics of the Ton Bai Romkao , an Indigenous plant species unique to Phang Nga Province in Southern Thailand, and the development of the plant into cultural commodities for tourism and local sustainability. The research area for this investigation was Kapong District, Phang Nga Province, Southern Thailand. The research on Ton Bai Romkao aimed to identify the characteristics of the plant, understand its local significance and explore the potential for its development using traditional knowledge in the Andaman provinces. Through document studies, structured and unstructured interviews, participant and non-participant observations and focused group discussions, it was clear that the Ton Bai Romkao plant plays an important role in local economic development and cultural sustainability. The results revealed that Ton Bai Romkao can be propagated from seed and is planted within community forests. Once the plant has matured, local villagers use the leaves to create everyday products. The leaves are valued for their thickness, durability and flexibility. This investigation confirmed the suitability of Ton Bai Romkao for the creation of conical hats and potential development of more products.