The Way of Ber-Amas Kites: Local Information Management for the Restoration, Conservation, and Continuation in the Multicultural Context of Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces

Japakeeya, Nureeda; Jungjing, Sarinya; Laotanathaworn, Benyada; Noonkleang, Supreeya; Rukwong, Maliwan; Kenputra, Dhirayuddh; Kuyyogsuy, Sirikarn

The Way of Ber-Amas Kites: Local Information Management for the Restoration, Conservation, and Continuation in the Multicultural Context of Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces

James Alexander Gordon on 15th January 2026

Author Information

Nureeda Japakeeya, Yala Rajabhat University, Thailand
Sarinya Jungjing, Yala Rajabhat University, Thailand
Benyada Laotanathaworn, Yala Rajabhat University, Thailand
Supreeya Noonkleang, Yala Rajabhat University, Thailand
Maliwan Rukwong, Yala Rajabhat University, Thailand
Dhirayuddh Kenputra, Yala Rajabhat University, Thailand
Sirikarn Kuyyogsuy, Yala Rajabhat University, Thailand

Abstract

The Beramas Kite, also known as the “Golden Kite of the Malays,” is a traditional kite representing the identity of the Malay ethnic group in Thailand's southern border provinces. Its structure and patterns are influenced by Malay history but have been adapted to align with Islamic principles. This paper explores local information management strategies for restoring, conserving, and continuing the Ber-Amas kite tradition within the multicultural context of Thailand's southern border provinces. Through qualitative research with 30 key informants including local scholars, folk artists, cultural entrepreneurs, and government representatives, the study documents the historical evolution of the kite, establishes a digital cultural database, and examines activities that revitalize the tradition for younger generations. Findings reveal that the Ber-Amas kite serves as both a cultural symbol and a vehicle for community cohesion, economic development, and soft power. The establishment of the Yala International Kite Festival and the Tacit Knowledge Database for Regional Development at Yala Rajabhat University have played pivotal roles in preservation. The study concludes that collaborative engagement between folk artists, cultural entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and government agencies is essential for sustaining this intangible cultural heritage while generating sustainable economic opportunities for the community.