A Report on Ko Kret

I apologize for the misunderstanding. Thank you for clarifying that Janpha Thadphoothon is an English lecturer from Dhurakij Pundit University who conducted research on Ko Kret in 2024.1

Research Report: Fundamental Aspects of Ko Kret

By Janpha Thadphoothon

Lecturer of English, Dhurakij Pundit University, Bangkok, Thailand2

Research conducted in 2024

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This report presents key findings from research conducted on Ko Kret in 2024, focusing on its essential geographical, historical, cultural, and socio-economic characteristics. Ko Kret, an island situated within the Chao Phraya River, represents a unique locale worthy of academic investigation due to its distinct heritage and contemporary challenges.

1. Geographical Overview

Ko Kret spans an area of 4.2 square kilometers, positioned centrally within the Chao Phraya River. The island's internal pathways cover approximately 5.2 kilometers, while its perimeter measures around 9 kilometers. This relatively compact dimension contributes to its accessibility for pedestrian and bicycle exploration, a key aspect for both local life and tourism.

2. Historical Context

The historical genesis of Ko Kret is rooted in the canal-digging initiatives undertaken to optimize transportation along the Chao Phraya River. A significant and enduring historical practice on the island is the production of pottery.3 Historically, this craft fulfilled a utilitarian purpose, providing essential kitchenware. Contemporary practices demonstrate an evolution towards carving techniques to enhance product value, signifying an adaptive response to market demands while preserving a traditional craft.

3. Religious and Belief Systems

Ko Kret exhibits a notable level of religious diversity, with the presence of Buddhism, Islam, and Mon belief systems.4 This multi-faith environment is underscored by the existence of five temples on the island. These include four prominent Mon temples—Wat Poramaiyikawas Worawihan, Wat Chimplisuttawat, Wat Phailom, and Wat Sao Thong Tong—alongside one Thai temple, Wat Sala Kun. This religious landscape contributes significantly to the island's cultural identity.

4. Key Tourist Attractions and Activities

The island offers a range of attractions that draw visitors, reflecting its cultural depth and artisanal heritage:

• The Leaning Pagoda: Standing at 9.34 meters, this structure was officially registered as an archaeological site by the Fine Arts Department on March 8, 1935, highlighting its historical significance.

• Somchai Thai Dessert: A notable establishment offering traditional Thai sweets such as Tong Yip, Tong Yord, Foi Thong, and Khanom Chun.

• Wat Phailom: An ancient temple, believed to have been constructed during the late Ayutthaya period, serving as a site of historical interest.5

• Batik Home at the Waterside: This venue provides insight into the local batik handcraft, allowing tourists to observe and participate in the creation of painted batik items, thereby engaging with a local cultural practice.

• Ko Kret Thai Massage: Services include foot massage (130 baht/hour), neck and shoulder massage (100 baht/30 minutes), and body massage (250 baht/1.5 hours). It is important to note contraindications for pregnant women, individuals with fever above 38.5 Celsius, and those with osteoporosis.

• Arts Handcraft: The island is particularly recognized for its local unglazed pottery, which possesses unique geographical qualities in its production process and is officially designated as the Nonthaburi provincial seal.6

• OTOP Village Champion: Operating under the "One Sub-district One Product" initiative, this area features various local enterprises offering Thai desserts, apparel, coffee, herbal products, handicrafts, and massage services.

5. Recommended Engagement Activities for Visitors

To fully appreciate Ko Kret, the following activities are recommended:

• Observing and learning about the local lifestyle of the island's inhabitants.

• Bicycle rental (approximately 40-50 baht) for circumnavigation of the island.

• Exploring the OTOP Village Champion products.

• Sampling the Thai desserts at Somchai Thai Dessert House.

• Participating in pottery-making workshops.

• Learning the crafts of batik painting and basket weaving.

• Experiencing Thai massage.

• Undertaking a boat tour around the Chao Phraya River.

• Engaging in merit-making activities at the local temples.

6. Ethnicity and Cultural Expression (Music and Dance)

Ko Kret is characterized by a diverse ethnic composition. Muslim communities are concentrated along the riverside in Village No. 2. The Mon population constitutes approximately 35% of the total demographic, primarily residing in Villages No. 1, 6, and 7. Additionally, Thai and Chinese ethnic groups contribute to the island's demographic tapestry. Mon cultural expression is particularly evident in their folk dances, which incorporate traditional Mon songs.

7. Local Products

The island's economy is supported by a variety of distinctive local products:

• Arts and Handcraft products: This category includes pottery items such as jars, vases, piggy banks, and aroma stoves.

• OTOP products: A broad range of goods produced under the "One Sub-district One Product" scheme.

• Batik and basket bags: Handcrafted textiles and woven items.

8. Mon Traditions and Customs

Mon traditions and customs are actively preserved, particularly during key annual events:

• Songkran Day: Celebrations involve the sprinkling of water onto Buddha images and the Leaning Pagoda. Distinctive culinary traditions include the Khao Chae procession (rice soaked in cool jasmine water) and the Nam Wan Procession (offering of Hale's Blue Boy syrup to monks).

• October Rituals: This month features specific ceremonies such as offering food to monks on boats and the offering of flowers to monks.

9. Transportation and Accessibility

Access to Ko Kret is facilitated via boat. Visitors typically proceed to Sanam Nua Temple, then to the Nonthaburi Pier located behind the temple.7 A short boat ride to Ko Kret costs 2 baht. On the island, local transportation options include bicycle rental (40-50 baht) or walking, enabling visitors to explore at their leisure.8

10. Environmental Concerns

A significant environmental issue facing Ko Kret is the accumulation of waste, particularly leaves and solid waste generated by visitors. Addressing this requires a concerted effort to encourage responsible waste disposal, specifically by utilizing designated waste receptacles, to ensure the preservation of the island's environmental integrity.