Bajau

/bɑːˈdʒaʊ/ noun

Definition

A seafaring ethnic group native to Southeast Asia, known for living on boats and diving for sea resources in the waters around Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Etymology

From Malay 'Bajau,' possibly derived from 'bajai' (boat). The Bajau have inhabited the maritime regions of Southeast Asia for centuries, with origins traced to migrations from the Malay peninsula.

Kelly Says

The Bajau people have actually evolved larger spleens and can hold their breath underwater for up to 13 minutes—scientists are studying their genetics to understand how humans physically adapt to diving, which shows evolution happening in real time.

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