Orang Laut

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Woonschuit van een Oerang-Laoet familie Ka. Toengkal TMnr 10010488

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Een vrouw van Orang-Laoet afkomst uit Solok Djambi Zuid-Sumatra TMnr 10005472

Sea Nomads distribution map

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Woonschuiten van de Orang-Laoets langs de kusten van Djambi en Riouw varende TMnr 10010489

RIAU WEB

Orang Laut are the indigenous people and nomadic sea gypsies who inhabit the coastal areas and islands in the Riau Archipelago, Batam, and around the southern coast of Singapore. Historically, they have played a significant role in the region, serving as the loyal followers and maritime force for the Malay sultanates, controlling the trade passages and providing security against pirates. The term "Orang Laut" translates to "Sea People" in Malay, reflecting their intimate connection with the sea.

History

The Orang Laut have a rich history that dates back centuries, with their presence significantly documented in the early accounts of the Malay Annals and various European explorers' logs. They were crucial in the establishment and maintenance of the Malacca Sultanate in the 15th century, acting as the sultanate's navy and protecting the Malacca Strait, one of the most important shipping lanes in the world. Their allegiance shifted to the Johor Sultanate following the fall of Malacca to the Portuguese in 1511.

Culture

The culture of the Orang Laut is deeply intertwined with the sea, as their traditional lifestyle revolves around fishing, gathering marine products, and building boats. They are known for their exceptional skills in navigation and intimate knowledge of the maritime environment. Traditionally, they lived in boats or stilt houses built along the coastlines and islands. However, in recent decades, many have been resettled into mainland villages by government programs, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore, leading to significant changes in their way of life.

Language

The Orang Laut speak various dialects of the Malay language, which are distinct but generally mutually intelligible with the Malay spoken by the coastal inhabitants of Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula. Their languages and dialects are an important part of their cultural identity, containing a vast vocabulary related to the sea, navigation, and marine life.

Current Situation

Today, the Orang Laut face numerous challenges, including loss of traditional fishing grounds due to industrial development, pollution, and the encroachment of commercial fishing operations. These factors, combined with the pressures of assimilation into the broader Malay culture, threaten their traditional way of life. Efforts are being made by various non-governmental organizations and cultural groups to preserve the Orang Laut's heritage and rights.

See Also

• Indigenous peoples of Southeast Asia
• Sea nomads
• Malay culture

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