The Art of Tais sysmbolises the identity, traditions and resilience of the Timorese People

On December 2021, Tais was officially inscribed into UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.

This global recognition honours the deep cultural significance of tais weaving in Timor-Leste, and helps ensure that this treasured tradition is preserved for future generations.

Historically, Tais served as clothing, ceremonial dress, dowries, and sacred offerings. Each design tells a story—symbolising local myths, ancestry, spiritual beliefs, and regional pride. Its motifs vary from district to district, reflecting the diverse ethnic heritage of Timor-Leste.

Traditionally made from hand-spun cotton and dyed with natural plant materials, the craft of Tais is passed down from mothers to daughters through oral tradition and practice. Men often assist by collecting dye plants or preparing fibres, but weaving itself is considered a woman’s sacred role.

Two people sit on the ground, examining a traditional woven rug or textile on a frame, with one person holding documents and the other explaining or demonstrating.
Young man dressed in traditional Indigenous attire, standing outdoors in a suburban backyard, wearing a feathered headdress and colorful striped shawl.

We are Timorese and we are proud

Today, the tais continues to be celebrated, worn proudly during ceremonies, gifted to honour guests, and increasingly showcased in global exhibitions. Thanks to both local efforts and international support, tais weaving is thriving as a symbol of cultural pride.