Characteristics and Transformations in the Religious and Spiritual Practices of Coastal Fishermen in Kien Hai Island Region Today

Kien Hai was formerly one of the three special administrative zones of Kien Giang province, which now belongs to An Giang province. The religious and spiritual practices of the coastal and island communities in Kien Hai encapsulate a wide range of cultural, spiritual, ethical, and economic-tourism values, contributing significantly to the identity of Kien Giang’s maritime culture. In the current context of intensified cultural interaction, adaptation, and conflict, these belief systems have undergone considerable transformation. This dynamic presents an urgent need to develop effective strategies for preserving and promoting the positive aspects of spiritual-cultural practices, thereby supporting sustainable socio-economic development. While some transformations reflect natural cultural evolution, others deviate from traditional values, leading to distortions that may obscure or diminish intangible cultural heritage. These inconsistencies require careful examination and appropriate adjustments to ensure the enduring vitality and integrity of local belief systems within the broader framework of cultural preservation and development.