Urak Lawoi in Thailand

People Name:	Urak Lawoi
Country:	Thailand
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	3,200
World Population:	3,200
Primary Language:	Urak Lawoi'
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	2.00 %
Evangelicals:	1.00 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	West Malaysia Indigenous
Affinity Bloc:	Malay Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Urak Lawoi is one of several ethnicities sometimes known as Sea Gypsies. They reside on several islands off the western coast of Thailand.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Urak Lawoi way of life has been firmly connected to the sea, and their seaside villages were established with a communal ethic that ensured that most things were shared, and that everyone knew each other. Today, the Urak Lawoi way of life is changing due to the national Marine Park, the influx of tourists and competition with commercial fisheries.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Animist by origin, the Urak Lawoi believed that every beach, sea and bay possessed a spirit that had to be respected.

What Are Their Needs?

The lure of materialism is preventing these people from realizing their spiritual needs.

Prayer Points

Pray the few followers of Christ among this people will be accurately taught the ways of Christ, and will live lives of holiness and joy.

Pray for safety for these seafaring people, and that they won't be exploited because of the many tourists now visiting their villages.

Pray that Christians among the tourists in the region will notice the Urak Lawoi people, befriend them, and share the love of Christ with them.

The New Testament is available in their language, so pray for Christian believers to give them the word.