Thailand's Moken sea nomads adapt to land life while seeking to preserve their culture

The Moken, an indigenous group in Thailand, have shifted from living on boats to permanent land dwellings due to various pressures, including stricter border controls and the destruction of traditional boats by the 2004 tsunami. This change has affected their cultural practices and livelihoods. A proposed bill aimed at recognizing the rights of ethnic groups, including the Moken, was recently tabled in Parliament. The bill seeks to provide support for preserving their traditions, but its future remains uncertain. In a recent development, the new chief of Surin Islands National Park expressed willingness to collaborate with the Moken on boat-building, provided they use fallen trees. This marks a potential shift in support for the Moken's cultural heritage.