Bangkok Malays

The Bangkok Malays (Thai: มลายูบางกอก, Jawi: ملايو بڠكوق‎, Bangkok Malay: Malayu Bangkok, Nayu Bakoi, Malay: Melayu Bangkok) are a distinct Malay community with historical roots dating back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Their presence in the city traces back to Siam's military campaigns, particularly against Patani, as well as Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, and other regions, which led to the forced relocation of thousands of Malays to Bangkok. Among them were members of the aristocracy, artisans and peasants who were resettled in various parts of the city.

Over time, the Bangkok Malays established settlements along the city's canal networks, engaging in agriculture, trade and construction. While many have assimilated into Thai society, they have preserved aspects of their cultural and religious heritage. Mosques and Islamic institutions remain central to the community, and traces of the Malay language are still present, particularly among the older generation, though its usage has declined over time.

In the 20th century, government-led assimilation policies and urbanization contributed to the gradual integration of the Bangkok Malays into mainstream Thai society. Today, most identify as Thai Muslims, though Islamic traditions and elements of Malay cultural identity remain evident in certain areas, particularly in Nonthaburi and Pathum Thani.

Apart from the long-established Bangkok Malays, contemporary Bangkok is also home to Malays from Thailand’s Deep South (Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat), as well as Satun, Trang, Songkhla and other regions, who migrated in later periods for economic, educational and social reasons. While they share certain linguistic and cultural ties with the Bangkok Malays, their migration is considered part of a separate historical development.