The Bajau Laut (also known as Sea Gypsies) are nomadic seafaring people (Image: Getty)
An incredible tribe known for its deep connection to the ocean and exceptional freediving skills has lived at sea for over 1,000 years.
The Bajau Laut (also known as Sea Gypsies) are nomadic seafaring people who traditionally live on boats and stilt houses in the waters around giant island Malaysian Borneo, Sabah, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
The tribe historically lived on boats called lepa-lepa, spending months or even years at sea. They would anchor near islands or reefs but rarely settle on land.
They only came to shore to trade fish for rice, fuel, fresh water, or other essentials.
In recent decades, government policies and environmental changes have encouraged many Bajau Laut to settle in villages with houses built on stilts over shallow waters.
Bajau Laut people looking through the window (Image: Getty)
However, some families continue their nomadic lifestyle, moving between fishing areas and temporary camps on islands.
Even those in villages often spend most of their time at sea, returning home mainly to sleep.
The Bajau Laut are expert divers and fishermen, using traditional spearfishing techniques. They catch and sell sea cucumbers (used in Chinese medicine), pearls, and various seafood to local markets or traders.
Some also work for commercial fishing boats or tourism operators, especially in places like Sabah, Malaysia.
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Interestingly, some of them can dive up to 60 metres (200 feet) without oxygen tanks. Infact, some Bajau Laut intentionally rupture their eardrums at a young age to help them dive deeper.
Scientists have found that their spleens are larger than average, allowing them to hold their breath longer.
The town of Semporna is the starting point for visiting Bajau Laut villages and nearby islands.
To reach the villages, one needs to fly to Tawau Airport (TWU) and drive 1.5 hours to Semporna.