(Díli, 20/02/2026) Bebonuk – A group of sculptors called Haburas Kultura Ilha Atauru (HKIA) continues to revive and develop traditional Timorese art from 2000 until now. The work that this group does is not only to earn income, but to preserve the cultural heritage that comes from our ancestors.
According to the coordinator, Haburas Kultura Ilha Atauru (HKIA) Group Eliseu da Costa Pereira said the original crafts they sell from the administrative post of Ataúro, Dili Municipality, the objective of the sculpture work comes from family tradition.
“In the past, grandparents made works to put in the traditional house (uma-lisan). Now, the new generation continues this handicraft with their own creativity and imagination. We do not attend special schools or formal training, but learn from seeing and practicing” Said Eliseu da Costa Pereira in Bebobuk recently
The coordinator argued that the commitment of the group is not only to sell and increase the family economy but to preserve and develop the identity of Timorese culture, handicrafts that they make with different models but still follow the inspiration of their ancestors
“Developing culture is a good example of how art can be a way of life and give value to national culture” He stressed.
He expressed in the market, many customers buy their products as foreigners who visit Timor-Leste including Timorese, art that they make with materials such as wood, teak and wood they themselves buy from carpentry especially foreigners, when tourists visit Timor-Leste, these works are like souvenirs. There are also some Timorese who buy, although not many.
“Although cleaning machines have been used, most of the work will be done by manual methods.” He stated
He also informed that, to promote these products, the group uses social media such as official Facebook and participates in national and international fairs and events organized by the government.
“Through government support, we have participated in international events in China (2008), Macau (2015 and 2024) and India (2023). These participations pave the way for the promotion of Timorese products abroad” He told
He added, although facing challenges and problems in the business that the group does but as a group that has its own mission and vision still provide good services and respect for everyone. the most important thing is to show a good image, because consumers may return in the future.
“A big challenge is the lack of materials, including chemical materials, and also the lack of permanent places to do production. Until now, they will use temporary places, although they have submitted a request to the authorities to find an appropriate place,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the group consists of 6 people, the production process starts from quantity 5 to 300, according to customer request, product price depends on size and complexity, but the price starts from five US dollars $ 5 US dollars one hundred $ 100 but depends on the object.
Journalist :Francisco Pereira
Editor :Joenaca da Conceião
