Author(s): Punya Tepsing, Thongphon Promsaka Na Sakolnakorn, Aree Naipinit, Korakod Tongkachok, Chula Charernvong, Anirut Bunphim, Sadudee Kummee, Apisak Dhiravisit, Akkakorn Chaiyapong
This paper presents the Kelantan Malaysian Thai-Buddhist people’s way of life under the context of pluralism culture in three southern border provinces of Thailand, and present how to apply sufficiency economy concepts to the ways of life of people during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we used qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews, phone interviews, and focus groups. Then, we analyzed the data using content and descriptive analyses. In this study, we present the Kelantan Malaysian Thai-Buddhist people’s way of life in cultural, economic, and societal contexts. we found that the current violence is making the Buddhist community fearful and suspicious and that they are participating in other religions for safety reasons. In addition, a sufficiency economy can help people increase their income and decrease their expenses, thus supporting life in a sufficient way-i.e., living according to our own individuality and position life during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the Thai government uses the plurality culture concept as a tool for solving conflicts and violence problems. However, the Thai government should be more concerned with equal opportunities for all people without discrimination.