Step into the world of Timorese heritage, where every piece of jewellery tells a story of bravery, spiritual connection, and cultural pride.
Belak – Symbol of Bravery
The Belak is a traditional medallion from Timor-Leste, once awarded by village elders to honour the courage of warriors. It is always worn with a red cotton thread, a powerful symbol of bravery.
Today, the Belak features prominently in traditional dance performances, connecting the past with the present through movement and ritual. Some Belak are considered sacred and are kept in the Uma Lulik (sacred house), only brought out during important village ceremonies.
Wearing a Belak is more than adornment—it’s a tribute to heritage, courage, and community.
Mamuli – Symbol of Reproductive Power
Delicate yet deeply symbolic, the Mamuli is a traditional piece of jewellery shaped like an ovary, representing fertility, life-giving power, and the sacred role of women in Timorese and Eastern Indonesian cultures.
More than just adornment, the Mamuli plays a vital role in exchange rituals, often gifted during marriage ceremonies or important family events. Once received, it becomes a cherished heirloom, passed lovingly from one generation to the next.
Known throughout East Timor and parts of Eastern Indonesia, the Mamuli stands as a graceful tribute to feminine strength, continuity, and the cycle of life.
✨ A shape that holds generations.
A symbol that honours creation.
Kaibauk – Symbol of Leadership
The Kaibauk is a striking traditional headdress worn by both men and women during ceremonies and ritual dances in Timor-Leste. Historically part of warrior regalia, the Kaibauk represents authority, honour, and the guiding role of a leader within the community.
More than a decorative piece, the Kaibauk is a sacred symbol, with certain heirlooms still preserved in the Uma Lulik—the village’s sacred house—and brought out only for special occasions.
Today, it continues to be worn proudly in cultural celebrations, reminding new generations of their ancestral strength and leadership legacy.
📸 Black & White Photo by: João Galamba
✨ A crown of courage.
A symbol of strength.
