Comparing Mlabri Way of Life: Past and Present

When the Mlabri tribe used to live in the forest it was a peaceful and simple life for them. However, they struggled if there was little rain, food shortages and with dangerous wild animals such as bears and tigers. By moving into other communities they improved their standard of living.
          
Passing on Knowledge of the Forest to the Next Generation
           When they lived in the forest the parents would have to forage to find food and other goods.  They used to take the children with them as they feared leaving them alone and they could also learn what was edible and what was not. This would help the children in the future when they would have to forage for themselves.  When testing out a new food, the adults would try it first to see whether it was safe to eat.
The Mlabri have great skill and expertise when it comes to surviving in the forest.  The knowledge is passed down from generation to generation.  When one family finds something to eat they will share with each other so everyone has enough food.  If they get an excess of food such as taros, or potatoes they cook and dry it to store for later use.  This is also very useful to help maintain flavor.  They use a similar method with unripe bananas; they pit the banana and heat it so they do not have to wait for it to ripen.

 Source: The Mlabri community at Baan Boonyuen, Moo 13, Thambon Vieng, Rongkwang district, Prae province.
Informants: 1. Weera Srichawpa
2. Phin Srichawpa
3. Nlikarn Chawphanaprai
4. Duangporn Naamjaikiri
                   5. The youths: Mai, Nueng, Amara and Kaewta