Effects on Morlum Troop Profession during Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to examine the effects on the Morlum Troop profession during the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and explain the problems and effects of Morlu Troop during this period, to present guidelines for self-adjustment to survive the COVID-19 pandemic, and to develop policy recommendations to support the survival and maintenance of this entertainment cultural activity from possible future threats. This was a qualitative research study that used a survey, observation and semi-structural in-depth interview as the research tools. The key informants were people who had experience in the Mo Lam Troop business and the relevant government agencies. The researcher classified the interview questions into three groups for the Mo Lam Troop leader, the performers and dancers, and the relevant government agencies, i.e., Cultural Office, Office of Social Development and Human Security, Labor Protection and Welfare Office, and Social Security Office. The research results illustrated this pandemic had a great impact on all sectors, including the business sector, entrepreneurs, public, and Morlum Troop who were severely affected. The effects on the Morlum Troop of Khon Kaen province could be classified into three dimensions: the social, economic, and professional dimension. The Morlum Troop adapted themselves to the situation by adjusting the performance, changing their career, and having financial planning with no direct aid or support policy from the government sector.