Sekak people

Last updated
Sekak
Orang Sekak
Regions with significant populations
Flag of Indonesia.svg Indonesia (Bangka Island)
Languages
Loncong (Sekak), Bangka Malay
Religion
Animism (dominant)
Islam, Christianity
Related ethnic groups
Bangka Malay, Sawang, Mapur

The Sekak people (Loncong : Orang Sekak) are an Austronesian ethnic group who inhabit the Bangka Belitung Islands. The Sekak are some of the most ancient peoples living on Bangka Island, [1] with most still following animism or local beliefs. However, in recent times, some have adopted Islam or Christianity. They inhabit the northern coastal areas of Bangka Island, with livelihoods primarily as fishermen.

The Sekak people are descendants of the Mantang people, one of the oldest groups of the Orang Laut (Sea People). Sekak are considered part of the Old Malay community, [1] and share similarities with other ancient groups on the Sumatran mainland. Today, they are no longer considered an isolated ethnic group, as they have adapted to external cultural influences.

The Sekak are known as sea experts with a strong work ethic, generosity, and a law-abiding nature. [2]

References

  1. 1 2 "Ketika Suku Laut Tidak Lagi di Laut. Mengapa?" [When the Sea People Are No Longer at Sea. Why?]. Mongabay Environmental News (in Indonesian). 13 October 2019. Retrieved 16 November 2025.
  2. Liputan6.com (25 March 2019). Syah, Moch Harun; Ige, Edhie Prayitno (eds.). "Pemilu, Liburnya Suku Sekak" [Election, the Sekak People Take a Holiday]. Liputan6.com (in Indonesian). Retrieved 16 November 2025.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)