Maniq people facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 300 | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Southern Thailand | |
| Languages | |
| Kensiu, Ten'edn, Thai (L2) |
|
| Religion | |
| Animism | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Semangs |
The Maniq are a special group of people who live in Southern Thailand. They are sometimes called Sakai, but this word is not polite and can be hurtful. The Maniq are the only Negrito group in Thailand. Negrito is a term used for certain groups of people in Southeast Asia who often have darker skin and curly hair. The Maniq speak their own languages, mainly Kensiu and Ten'edn. These languages are part of a larger group called Aslian languages. The Maniq have a unique culture and no written alphabet.
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Who are the Maniq People?
Where the Maniq Live
In Thailand, the Maniq people live in the southern parts of the country. You can find them in the provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, Phatthalung, Trang, and Satun.
The Maniq are divided into two main groups based on where they live. One group lives in the Titiwangsa Mountains in Yala and Narathiwat. The other group lives in the Banthat Mountains in Phatthalung, Trang, and Satun.
There are about 300 Maniq people in total. They are spread out into several different family groups or clans.
Their Way of Life
The Maniq are a hunting and gathering society. This means they find their food by hunting animals and collecting plants, fruits, and vegetables from nature. They do not farm or keep animals like many other groups.
They build temporary homes using natural materials like bamboo and banana leaves. These huts are easy to set up and take down when they need to move. The Maniq wear simple clothes made from materials found in the forest, such as bamboo leaves. They know a lot about different medicinal herbs and how to use them for health.
Moving to New Places
Sometimes, Maniq clans will move to a new area. This happens when they need to find new sources of food or better places to live. Before moving, hunters from the clan will go ahead to explore the land. They look for a good spot to set up their new camp. Once a suitable place is found, the hunters return to their clan. Then, they lead everyone to their new home.
A Special Story with the King
Long ago, some rulers in the southern parts of Thailand sometimes kept Negrito people in their homes. This was seen as a sign of importance.
However, in the early 1900s, King Chulalongkorn (also known as Rama V), who was the king of Thailand, visited the southern regions. He met some of the Semang people, who are related to the Maniq.
In 1906, an orphaned Semang boy named Khanung was brought to the royal court. The king treated him with kindness and saw him almost like an adopted son. This event led to the royal family showing support and care for the Semang people.
See also
