It also has one of the most ethnically diverse populations in the world, with over 600 distinct people groups. The Riau Malay are, by far, the largest and most dominant ethnic group in the Riau province. Most of the Riau Malay see themselves as open, friendly, and accepting of newcomers. They feel that these characteristics have been an important part of their history, since for centuries they have lived in cordial proximity to the Buginese-Makassarese, Chinese, and Javanese. Like Nearly two-thirds of Riau's citizens work as farmers, harvesting products from the rubber, palm oil, and gambir trees.
Large fisheries harvest and export shrimp, fish, and a variety of fish products.
As Indonesia continues to develop, industrial workers will gradually begin to outnumber both farmers and fishermen. In addition, many people will begin working in large hotels and resorts, in construction and maintenance, and in utility services. Temperatures throughout the Riau province range from a maximum of 31 degrees Celsius to an average minimum temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. The rainy season lasts from October to February with sporadic rainfall throughout the year. Rainfalls average 2,000 to 3,000 millimeters a year.