Cultural Preservation

At Timor Aid, we are committed to preserving and promoting Timorese culture. We focus on two key areas: the preservation of the locally woven fabric, Tais and the development of the local language, Tetun. 


Tais: A Living Legacy
Tais is an intricate and beautiful fabric that is deeply embedded in Timorese culture. It is a symbol of our identity and heritage, and it is still used today in traditional ceremonies and celebrations.

Weaving Tais is a sacred process that has been passed down from generation to generation. The weavers of Timor-Leste use a variety of techniques, motifs, and colors to create unique and stunning pieces of fabric.

In December 2021, UNESCO recognized Tais as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in urgent need of safeguarding. We are committed to preserving this precious tradition and ensuring that Tais continues to thrive for generations to come.


Tetun: The Unifying Language
Tetun is the national and official language of Timor-Leste. It is spoken by people from all walks of life and from all ethnic groups. Tetun is a unifying language that helps to bridge the divides between different communities.

Timor Aid is running Tetun language classes and publishing books in Tetun to promote the language and its use. We believe that Tetun is essential for Timor-Leste’s future development and prosperity.

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