Moken face extinction as their way of life disappears in Thailand

Thailand is home to the Moken, an indigenous group that once thrived on a nomadic lifestyle at sea. Historically, these sea nomads lived on boats known as kabangs, only returning to land during the monsoon season. However, restrictions have increasingly limited their traditional way of life, and many Moken began settling on land in the Surin Islands off the Thai coast. Today, they struggle to maintain their culture and skills, such as boat building, with only one kabang remaining in their village. Efforts to secure their rights through legislation like the Protection and Promotion of Ethnic Groups’ Way of Life bill have faced setbacks as recent drafts were tabled by Parliament. Young members of the community like Hook, also known as Suriyan Klathale, are adapting to these changes and prioritizing job security and livelihoods over traditional skills. The elders, including Tat and Wilasinee Klathale, aim to educate children about the sea, music, and dance to preserve their heritage. Despite the grim outlook, they’re determined to keep the Moken culture alive for future generations, emphasizing the importance of their way of life.