A Malay woman carrying pail

The woman is wearing a long-sleeved top over a batik sarong. The Malays migrated to the Malay Archipelago between 2,000 and 5,000 BC. There are a variety of sub-groups, such as the Peninsular Malay, Javanese, Boyanese, Bugis and others, within the Malay community. Most Malays are Muslims and speak the Malay language. Malay customs and traditions originated from Hindu beliefs but were eventually modified in accordance to Islamic teachings.