"Nomads of the Sea" generally refers to communities that live a largely aquatic or maritime lifestyle, often moving from place to place on the water. These groups are traditionally found in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, and they have a deep connection to the sea, relying on it for food, transportation, and even as a part of their cultural identity. Some of the most well-known nomadic sea people include:
Bajau: Often called "Sea Gypsies," the Bajau are an indigenous group found in the waters of the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. They are famous for their extraordinary free-diving abilities and spend much of their lives on houseboats or stilt houses over the water.
Moken: The Moken people inhabit the Andaman Sea, along the coasts of Thailand and Myanmar. They are skilled in diving and fishing, using traditional techniques passed down for generations. The Moken are semi-nomadic, often moving with the seasons.
Orang Laut: This group is found in the Riau Archipelago, the southern Malay Peninsula, and surrounding areas. The Orang Laut have historically served as navigators and guides for trade ships, using their extensive knowledge of the sea.
These communities are known for their resilience and adaptability, though modern challenges such as climate change, government policies, and industrial fishing have pressured their traditional ways of life. Despite these challenges, many groups maintain their deep connection to the sea, continuing to pass down their maritime traditions.
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