| Total population |
|---|
| 3,000 |
| Regions with significant populations |
| Southern Thailand |
| Languages |
| Religion |
|
Traditional religion, Theravada Buddhism, Christianity |
Urak Lawoi (Malay: Orang Laut) are an ethnic group residing on the islands of Phuket, Phi Phi, Jum, Lanta, Bulon and on Lipe and Adang, in the Adang Archipelago,[1] off the western coast of Thailand. They are known by various names, including Orak Lawoi', Lawta, Chaw Talay, Chawnam, and Lawoi.
The population of approximately 6000 speak a language related closely to Malay but influenced by Thai.[2] The Urak Lawoi are one of several southeast Asian ethnicities referred to as "sea gypsies" (chao leh in Thai).[3] The local way of life has been changing rapidly in recent years, due to the rapid encroachment of the market economy, and the opening of Tarutao National Marine Park.[1]
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