Understanding, Identity and Ethnic of Malay-Muslims students in Thailand

Abstract

This article aimed to study the adaptation process of youths from the three southern border provinces who moved to other areas of Thailand, whose have Islam religious and Malay- Muslims ethnic group who move to study at Prince of Songkhla University Surat Thani Campus (PSU), Thailand. The study based on qualitative, focus group was analyzed using analysis four misunderstanding issues to finding level of adaptation as 1) Teacher day's observation 2) The activity of welcoming freshmen 3) Hijab and 4) Halal food with Youths, aged 18- 24, it found that had three levels of adaptation: The first level, during the first month. They are attached to the identity of the ethnic group. The second level, they have adapted to the identity of the ethnic group. At the same time, they have adapted to the culture or culture to the third level, and when they are in the area for longer, they see themselves as part of a new culture. Moreover, this article will help to open up new perspectives for people of different religions, or individuals in Thai society to better understand the way of life, culture, and differences of Muslim students. Together, people of different ethnicities can learn and accept their cultural differences so that they can live together peacefully.