Migration Patterns, Livelihood and Adaptation of Tai Yai Workers in Lumber Factories in San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

During the past three decades, Tai Yai workers have played an important role in the
country’s economic development, particularly in Chiang Mai. This research studied the
migration patterns, livelihood, and adaptation of Tai Yai workers in lumber factories in the
San Kamphaeng district, Chiang Mai province. Researchers interviewed 32 Tai Yai workers who have worked in these factories and lived in the local community. The result showed
that the respondents had migrated into the study area from 1998–2007, passing through the
Nong Uk checkpoint, Chiang Dao. It was found that most Tai Yai workers had left their area
of origin due to economic and political factors. They were drawn to the destination by labour
shortages and the potential for economic security. Their decision to migrate was support by
a social network of with supports from relatives and friends. After migrating, these workers
well-adjusted themselves to their work and local community though there were some initial
problems from the beginning. The problems most frequently found were communication,
employment, and food consumption. Overall, these workers were able to adjust to normal
life and live happily with local people in the community through their Buddhist beliefs and
customs with the local temples as the center.