WHO ARE THE BAJAU?

The Bajau have lived on the waters off the coasts of Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines for centuries. 

Their floating homes keep them connected to the sea at all times, though their distance from the mainlands also keep them disconnected them from modern civilization. Perhaps, this divide is part of what allows them to maintain their way of life and ancestral traditions despite the influences of globalization. 

 

Geographical Distribution

The Bajau people can be found in several countries, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Historically, they have lived on boats or in stilt houses above the water, and have relied on fishing and trading to sustain their way of life. They build boats, called lepa-lepa’s which they use to transport themselves across the sea, and they don’t often set foot on land. The lives of the Bajau revolve around the sea.

Exceptional Diving Abilities

One of the most notable aspects of the Bajau people is their incredible ability to free-dive to depths of up to 70 meters without the use of scuba gear. They have adapted to life underwater over generations and have developed larger spleens, which allows them to hold their breath for longer periods of time. They learn from an early age how to control their breathing underwater and to fish, meaning that by the time they reach adolescence they are usually skilled fishermen, often using traditional methods like hand-line fishing or spearfishing to catch fish and other seafood.

Rich Cultural Heritage

The Bajau people’s deep connection to their seafaring way of life has fostered a rich cultural heritage. During their ocean dives, they don handmade wooden goggles to protect their eyes, which are often crafted through an essential cultural process for boys, taught by their fathers. As a spiritual people, the Bajau worship Omboh Dilaut, the God of the sea, and other sea spirits. While many Bajau communities are Muslim, their religious beliefs remain intertwined with their daily lives. Their language varies slightly depending on the region, and their traditional attire features vibrant colours and intricate embroidery.

Challenges and Resilience

Unfortunately, the Bajau people have faced challenges in recent years due to climate change, overfishing, and government policies that restrict their access to traditional fishing grounds. Some Bajau communities have been forced to abandon their nomadic lifestyle and settle on land, which has led to cultural displacement and economic challenges. Despite these challenges, the Bajau people continue to preserve their cultural heritage and way of life.

Jatmin, an octopus specialist, carries his freshly speared catch back to his boat in the shallow waters off the coast of Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Jatmin surfacing with an octopus. The spearguns the Bajau often carry are handy for rooting the creatures from the holes in which they hide. Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Ramdan hunting with his handmade pana speargun. Since his father died compressor diving, Ramdan now forages the reefs in order to support himself and his mother. Torosiaje, Indonesia.
Moen Lanke wrenching clams from the reef with a tyre iron. He holds his breath for long minutes underwater while the work is done. Sulawesi, Indonesia.