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The people of Krabi represent a mix of different
races who over history came to settle from different regions. It
is said that each group of people represent a different page in
the history of Krabi. The Chao Ley or "Sea Gypsies" reside
on various of the islands in Krabi's waters, and traditionally made
their living from wandering around fishing and diving for their
livelihood.
Their small communities are in danger of overexposure to tourism,
and inevitable assimilation, however some of their traditional ways
are presented in the yearly sea gypsy sailing ritual held in May
on Koh Lanta, Koh Pu and Koh Cham.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Southern Chinese people
flocked to Thailand in search of work and many made their way to
the south of Thailand to work in local industry.
In more recent times, there involvement has been high in oil palm
plantations and gypsum mining. Despite the assimilation of Chinese
people and their descendants with local people over time, many retain
vestiges of their Chinese heritage.
Many still retain the ability to speak Chinese, have Chinese (and
Thai) names, and observe Chinese rituals and religious beliefs.
Being in close proximity to Malaysia, southern Thailand is also
home to many Muslim communities, and Krabi itself has a strong Muslim
presence.
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