A research team from the School of Accountancy and Finance, Walailak University, led by Assistant Professor Nalinee Tinnam, Assistant Professor Dr. Pornpen Thipphayana, Assistant Professor Suchart Chansamran, and Dr. Nisthida Sudmai, is advancing the project entitled “Developing Community Entrepreneurs and Identity-Based Products in the Pak Phanang River Basin Using Local Rice Varieties” (WUSE-2026).
The project aims to apply research-based knowledge to community product development, create added value for indigenous rice varieties, strengthen local entrepreneurship, and generate sustainable economic opportunities in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
On May 8, 2026, the research team visited Ban Sai Ngod Community in Sai Khao Subdistrict, Hua Sai District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, to engage with local producers and sellers of traditional uncooked “Khao Kriap Wao,” a local rice cracker product that reflects the culinary heritage and traditional way of life of communities in the Pak Phanang River Basin.
The field visit focused on understanding the local context, production processes, product characteristics, as well as the actual needs and pain points faced by producers and community entrepreneurs. Initial observations revealed that the traditional Khao Kriap Wao is typically produced in large sheets that can break easily, while its existing format may not fully correspond with the lifestyles and consumption preferences of younger consumers. These factors may limit opportunities for market expansion and value creation.
The research team is therefore exploring the potential of “Kab Dam,” a local rice variety closely associated with the identity and agricultural heritage of the area, as a key resource for enhancing the traditional product. The development approach will focus on product format, differentiation, value creation, and community entrepreneurial capacity while preserving local wisdom and cultural identity.
Engaging directly with community members is regarded as a crucial stage of the project. Information, experiences, and recommendations obtained from local producers and entrepreneurs will serve as an important basis for designing development strategies that genuinely respond to both community needs and market demands.
This field visit marks the beginning of a collaborative process between Walailak University and the local community, with the goal of transforming research knowledge into practical outcomes. The project seeks to enhance identity-based products from indigenous rice varieties in the Pak Phanang River Basin, increase income opportunities, strengthen community entrepreneurs, and contribute to sustainable local economic development.
The initiative also demonstrates Walailak University’s commitment to connecting academic research with area-based development. It contributes particularly to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.