The Malay people are an ethnic group primarily found in Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and parts of Thailand and Singapore. They share a common language, known as the Malay language, and have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, and crafts. The majority of Malays are Muslims, which influences their customs and daily life. Historically, the Malays have played a significant role in the region's trade and politics, especially during the Malacca Sultanate in the 15th century. Today, they are recognized for their contributions to the arts, literature, and cuisine, with dishes like nasi lemak and rendang being popular in many countries.