Khmer ethnic group
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.
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. 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 Om Bok"
(Moon Worship).
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.