ABSTRACT
The Kui’s exclusion from the Thai AHD contributed to the end of elephant catching and the endangerment of Kui elephant heritage, primarily the role of the mor chang (the elephant catchers), the knowledge of making the Pakam rope (the lasso used to capture elephants), and the phasa phi pa or “forest spirit language” (spoken only by the mor chang while in the forest capturing elephants). In response to this threat of endangerment, the Kui have adapted (or intend to adapt) the traditions of the mor chang and the Pakam rope-making process. The phasa phi pa, however, faces total loss, as the community is either unable or unwilling to find a place for it within contemporary Kui society.
