Stilt Houses of the Sea Gypsies at Maiga Island, Malaysia

Nestled in crystal-clear waters under a vast blue sky dotted with wispy clouds, traditional stilt houses rise majestically above sea level near Maiga Island off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia. A small boat rests gently upon the water's surface nearby where two young boys can be seen engaging playfully or perhaps tending to daily chores by the water. These homes are built over shallow reefs using local materials like wood poles for support and thatched roofs made from palm fronds which blend harmoniously into this serene marine environment.