The Malaysian Siamese, Siamese Malaysians or Thai Malaysians are people of full or partial Thai descent who were born in or immigrated to Malaysia. In 2014, there were nearly 70,000 people self-identifying as "Siamese" or "Thai" who hold Malaysian nationality. This number excludes those Thais living in Malaysia who do not hold Malaysian citizenship.
Contents
Politically, Malaysian Siamese are recognised as Bumiputeras (indigenous) and are given similar status to the Malays.
Religion
Malaysian Siamese people adhere to either Buddhism or Islam. The predominant form of Buddhism is Theravada which is centred on their place of worship called the Wat. There also exists a significant Muslim community. However, many Muslim Siamese have become assimilated into the Malay populace and no longer identify as Siamese.
Culture
Most Malaysian Siamese people lead a way of life similar to the Malays. This is evident especially among the Kelantanese Siamese. One could not differentiate a Malay or a Siamese if they are not heard speaking their own language. The only distinctive mark among them is their religion and language. Otherwise Malaysian Siamese are like Malays as they also speak fluent local Malay dialects.
The Malaysian Siamese often get patronage from the state governments for their community well being. Often, temples are given generous fundings by the governments.