The Sama-Bajau refers to several Austronesian ethnic groups of Maritime Southeast Asia. The name collectively refers to related people who usually call themselves the Sama, Samah, or Samal; or are known by the exonym Bajau (, also spelled Badjao, Bajaw, Badjau, Badjaw, Bajo or Bayao). They usually live a seaborne lifestyle, and use small wooden sailing vessels such as the perahu, (Layag in Meranau) djenging, balutu, lepa, pilang, and vinta (or lepa-lepa). Some Sama-Bajau groups native to Sabah are also known for their traditional horse culture.

The Sama-Bajau refers to several Austronesian ethnic groups of Maritime Southeast Asia. The name collectively refers to related people who usually call themselves the Sama, Samah, or Samal; or are known by the exonym Bajau (, also spelled Badjao, Bajaw, Badjau, Badjaw, Bajo or Bayao). They usually live a seaborne lifestyle, and use small wooden sailing vessels such as the perahu, (Layag in Meranau) djenging, balutu, lepa, pilang, and vinta (or lepa-lepa). Some Sama-Bajau groups native to Sabah are also known for their traditional horse culture.