East Timor

Timor-Leste (East Timor): A place of Strength, Nature and Culture

Timor-Leste, also called East Timor is a beautiful country occupying a young nation with a lonely history and diverse culture. This country, covered with the eastern part of the island of Timor in the Southeast of Asia, provides the visitors with a special mixture of colonial past, rich culture, and stunning nature. East Timor is one of the most undiscovered gems due to its warm-hearted people, clean beaches, and curious cultural origins.

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Geographical Location

East Timor is located in the South East of Asia and sits on the eastern portion of the Island of Timor. The Wetar strait and Savu Sea borders it to the north and Timor Sea to the south. It borders the other nations like Indonesia to the west and Australia to the south.

Other smaller islands such as Atauro Island and the Oecusse enclave are also found in the territory of the country and are located in the north coast of West Timor (Indonesia). Compared to the rest of the Asian countries, East Timor is one of the smallest nations with an approximate total area of 15,410 square kilometers.

Natural features and Landforms

East Timor has mountains, valleys, and coastal plains as characteristic features. The peak of the country is the highest mountain in Timor in the eastern part which is called Mount Tatamailau (Mount Ramelau) standing 2,963 meters (9,721 feet) above sea level. The main ridge of mountains traverses the country forming beautiful sceneries, such as precipitous hills, steep valleys, and rainforests.

East Timor has a very clear, turquoise ocean and beautiful beaches, coral reefs and islands which are ideal to dive and snorkel. Several nature reserves exist along its beach areas, which make it a very busy center with regard to eco-tourism and water sports activities.

History of Colonization to Independence

Colonial Era

East Timor history is indicated by the European colonial powers. The Portuguese invaded East Timor in the 16th century and governed the country for almost over 400 years and left their mark on the island by introducing it to the world of spice trade. The Portuguese rule consisted of the failure to pay attention combined with attempts to convert the population to Christianity, which remains the leading religion in the country nowadays.

Indonesian Occupation

East Timor broke out of the Portuguese hand in 1975. But after a few days the country was invaded and annexed by Indonesia and the country was brutally occupied by it for 24 years. This was a time where the people of East Timor experienced violence, suppression and mass loss of life and it is estimated that a total of 200,000 lives were lost because of fighting, starvation and illness.

Years were spent calling for an end to the occupation by the international community, and with the help of a strong East Timorese movement of independence. With the occurrence of massive violence and a UN sponsored referendum, Indonesia eventually agreed to yield East Timor the right to realize its independence in 1999. This was however preceded by a destructive action by pro Indonesian militia with mass destruction experienced in the country.

Liberty and the Modern Era

East Timor became the first new sovereign state of the XXI century as it was officially granted independence on May 20, 2002. This was assisted by the United Nations who helped the country to learn the initial steps of independence in which major reconstruction to the infrastructures, economy and political institutions of the country occurred.

East Timor is a young country who since the attainment of independence has experienced difficulties of economic development, political stability as well as reconciliation within the nation. The country has however realized great progress towards the achievement of a peaceful and democratic nation upon the attainment of independence in 1999. All the above make the country gain its independence that is marked each year since the 20th of May.

Phylogeny, Ethnic Groups and Religion

East Timor is the land of the plurality of ethnic groups, most of the residents are East Timorese with the Malayo-Polynesian origin. Smaller communities such as Chinese, Indonesian as well as Portuguese groups also exist and they have added to the cultural diversity of the country.

The most popular religion is Roman Catholicism which was introduced at the Portuguese colonial time. The East Timorese population is widely Catholic: according to the estimate, it consists of around 98% of Catholics, which makes East Timor a very Catholic state in the Asian region. It is, further, a Muslim minority, and some communities still subscribe to traditional animist beliefs.

Practices, and Traditions

East Timorese culture is largely influenced by Portuguese and Malayo-Polynesian culture. This coming together is reflected in the country’s traditional music, dance, and artists whereby tama (drums), traditional chanting, and hand-woven clothing, otherwise known as tais, are some of the key aspects of the East Timorese cultures. Specifically, Tais weaving is a very appreciated art and an identifier of the East Timorese.

Another feisty cultural tradition is the Kandiu dance, which is a ritual dance commonly used in very significant ceremonies and celebrations. The biggest religious festival is the Festa de Sao Joao (St. Johns Festival), as well as the other local festivals which reflect the cultural diversity of the country.

Big events and festivals and holidays

The most important national holiday in East Timor is Independence Day which is held on the 20th day of May. The anniversary day celebrates the release of the country under occupation of the Indonesian and the official foundation of the new republic. This celebration involves national parades, music, dancing and community meetings.

Festa de São João (St. John’s Festival)

St. John’s Festival is a big religious holiday which is celebrated on June 24th every year and usually is a mixture of Catholic and local traditions. It is a feasting day, music day, dancing, and prayers and the holidays initiating the harvest in East Timor.

Lent and Easter

The Catholic calendar has significant events of Lent and Easter which are celebrated through church services, processions and sumptuous dinners. Most of the East Timorese people engage in the activities of the Holy week and attend masses to mark the resurrection of Jesus.

Agriculture, Oil and Development

Farming forms the core of the economy of East Timor which provides a majority number of the population. This means that the country having rich land is able to cultivate crops like rice, cassava, corn, sweet potatoes and coffee. Arabica coffee beans are a valuable export of East Timor, coffee being a major export of that country.

Another major industry is fishing as the coastline of East Timor is very fruitful in marine resources. The nation can build sustainable aquaculture to feed its increasing population.

Oil and Natural Resources

East Timor has oil reserves that are off-shore especially, Timor Sea which is the biggest revenue source. The future has however been concerning the future of the country whether it depends on this oil it used to rely on and the government has been making efforts to diversify its economy so that it can have less dependency on this sector.

Economic Development

To boost the economy the government has invested in several sectors including roads and infrastructures, education, and health among others. Although the nation has its problems in regard to unemployment, poverty, and income inequality, East Timor has been building on its standard of living of the people and tourism (sustainable) and small-scale industries.

Not to be Missed

Dili

Dili, the largest and capital city of the East Timor country, is a combination of modern and traditional experiences. Sightseers are free to visit historical sites including the Santa Cruz Cemetery that provides a memorial to the victims of the massacre of 1991; and Cristo Rei, a huge statue of Christ located over the city.

Atauro Island

Atauro Island, located literally off the coast of Dili, is famous to offer beautiful beaches and coral reefs and amazing chances to dive and snorkel. Traditional Timorese villages can also be found in the island where non-residents can get to know about the local practice and way of living.

Mount Ramelau

East Timor Mount Ramelau The higher East Timor hill is a successful hiking and travel site. It provides scenic beautiful sceneries of its environment such as the Oecusse Enclave and the coast side.

Tutuala and Jaco Island

Tutuala and Jaco Island lie in the eastern side of East Timor and are considered remote areas characterized by their strikingly beautiful untouched nature, white beaches with crystal clear waters. The islands are ideal for eco-tourism, bird watching and marine life.

Healthcare System

East Timor can be said to have a very simple mode of healthcare, which is slowly being built with the help of the international community and the government. It is a nation with issues as far as access to medical services within the rural areas is concerned and a lot needs to be upgraded as far as the healthcare infrastructure is concerned. Nevertheless, construction of new modern hospitals and advancement in healthcare services are in progress.

Education System

Education within East Timor is free and mandatory to a child up to the age of 14. Educational reform is being funded by the government, yet there are some challenges in the country that can be faced in relation to literacy rate, higher education, and access to talented educators. Dili has universities and colleges which teach various subjects although a large number of students will get higher degrees through education outside Dili.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation Network

The transportation system of East Timor is an emerging economy and roads to large cities and towns are available. Nevertheless, a lot of rural lands are not connected because of the poor road system. The Dili International Airport is used as the primary gate of the country, and there are airliners to other neighbouring countries, such as Australia and Indonesia.

Urban Development

The capital (Dili) has experienced a lot of development especially in infrastructure, there are modern structures, shopping, and hotels. Nonetheless the infrastructure in the country on energy, water and waste management is still weak and most parts of the country are still deprived of basic services.

Time to go: Time to Visit

The ideal travel period in East Timor is through the dry season in between May to October. This is a good time to do outdoor activities like hiking, going to the beach and visiting wild animals. The wet season (November to April) is characterized by heavy rain which makes certain regions inaccessible.

Events and Festival Specials

And to dodge out tourists it is best to travel during Independence Day (May 20th) or St. Johns festival giving a chance to see the color of busy celebrations and cultural activities that is part of the East Timorese people.

Conclusion Future of East Timor

East Timor is a young sovereign country having a long cultural heritage and having the future promising everything. Although challenged by the economic development, infrastructure, and social services, the country is gradually gaining and striving to produce a better and more sustainable future for its citizens. East Timor is a country beautiful in sceneries, nice people, and filled with many traditions and rich history; it is a country that many may love to explore.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to go to East Timor?

The most appropriate time to go there is the dry season, even between the months of May and October.

Which are the major attractions in East Timor?

There are also the top attractions: Dili, Atauro Island, Mount Ramelau and Tutuala.

Which are the languages spoken in East Timor?

The country has official languages, which are Tetum and Portuguese, as well as Indonesian and English.

And what is the currency of East Timor?

The national currency is the US dollar (USD).

Is East Timor safe for tourists?

Yes, East Timor can be visited by the tourists quite safely, but your trip to a rural region should be undertaken cautiously.

What religion prevails in East Timor?

Most of the people of East Timor are Roman Catholics, and then there are minorities of Muslim and Protestants.