THAI FOLK GAMES IN THE TRANSITIONAL ERA: FROM TRADITIONAL GROUNDS TO GLOBAL ARENAS
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Abstract
Thai traditional plays constitute an important form of intangible cultural heritage that reflects the wisdom, ways of life, and cultural identity of Thai society. Despite their profound social and cultural value, they are increasingly at risk of fading from everyday Thai life due to social change, technological advancement, and the growing prominence of digital recreation. This article aimed to: (1) examine the transition from traditional plays to international sports through case studies of Kho Kho, Kabaddi, and dodgeball; (2) analyze the structural and functional connections between selected Thai traditional plays, namely Toei, Tee Jap (Bak-Ee), and Kwang Ling, and the three international sports; and (3) propose development pathways for Thai traditional plays through document analysis and literature synthesis. The findings indicate that the success of international sports results not merely from the inherent characteristics of particular activities, but from structural arrangements that integrate standardized rules, institutional strength, and sustainable economic models. At the same time, Thai traditional plays such as Toei, Tee Jap, and Kwang Ling demonstrate functional potential comparable to the selected international sports in terms of game mechanisms, relevant physical fitness components, and movement skills. However, their development remains constrained by limited institutional mechanisms and discontinuous support. Therefore, the development of Thai traditional plays should begin with an assessment of the potential and suitability of each activity by systematically considering physical, social, cultural, safety, and community-readiness dimensions. This process should include the establishment of appropriate rules and standards, sustainable institutional mechanisms, and alignment with soft power strategies. Not all Thai traditional plays need to be developed into international cultural sports. Rather, development pathways should be tailored to the potential of each activity, including use as learning activities, health-promoting recreational activities, intergenerational programs, cultural tourism resources, or cultural sports where appropriate. Such an approach may help sustain Thai traditional plays as living heritage while generating recreational, social, cultural, and economic value appropriate to contemporary Thai society.
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