ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Ethnic Malays

Okay kiddo, let me tell you about ethnic Malays! Malays are a group of people who live in Southeast Asia. They are often recognized by their brown skin, dark hair, and brown eyes. They speak a language called Malay, and their culture is a blend of different religions and traditions.

Now, when we say "ethnic Malays," we are talking specifically about people who are descended from the original Malay population in the region. This means they have a very long history in the area and have established their own unique traditions and customs.

In Malaysia and Indonesia, which have large Malay populations, ethnic Malays are recognized as one of the major ethnic groups. They are often proud of their heritage and work to preserve their culture, which includes things like traditional dances, music, and clothing.

One important part of Malay culture is their religion. Many ethnic Malays are Muslim, which means they follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. They pray five times a day and observe a month-long fasting period called Ramadan.

Overall, ethnic Malays are an important part of Southeast Asian culture and history, and they continue to play a significant role in the region today.