KHMER ETHNIC GROUP

Population: About 1,000,000 people.

Locality: Soc Trang, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Can Tho, Kien Giang and An Giang Provinces.

Customs and Habits: The Khmer mainly practice Brahmanism and Hinayana Buddhism. Before reaching adulthood, young Khmer  people often go to  pagodas to study and improve their virtues and knowledge. Major Khmer festivals include "Chon Cho Nam Tho May" (New Year Festival), Buddha's Birthday, "Don Ta" (Forgive the Crimes of the Dead), and "Ooc Bom Booc" (Moon Worship).

Culture: The Khmer have managed to preserve their own language and writings. They usually live with the Kinh and Hoa in "soc" (villages), and "phum" or "ap" (hamlets). The houses are simply built with thatched or tiled roofs.

Economy: The Khmer have a long tradition in wet rice cultivation. Animal husbandry, weaving, pottery and sugar making from the "Thot Not" Tree are other forms of economic activity.