Recent Evidence for Prehistoric Populations in the Thai-Malay Peninsula

Sukanya Lertwintinun* and Naruphol Wangthongchaicharoen

The Thai–Malay Peninsula is the one of important interaction areas where shows an ancient trans-peninsular routes and traces of Suvarnabhumi. However, ancient ancestors since Palaeolithic though the Metal Age provided clear evidence of prehistoric cultural groups, such as Hoabinhian hunter-gatherer, Neolithic framer and non-local populations during the Metal Age. In 2025, Suvarnabhumi Studies Centre of Silpakorn University excavated Khao Kob archaeological site, a rock shelter located in Chumphon Province in the upper part of the Thai–Malay Peninsula. At Khao Kob site, continuous burials were discovered, ranging from the Hoabinhian culture (7,000 BP), the Neolithic (4,000 BP), and the Iron Age (2,000 BP). This study of human skeletons aims to explain the biological profiles, health, and population groups of ancient people. It also compares these findings with previous studies to provide a broader understanding of human history in the Thai–Malay Peninsula.