East Timor
East Timor: A Young Nation with a Rich History and Culture
East Timor, also known as Timor-Leste, is a country in Southeast Asia that occupies the eastern half of the island of Timor,
as well as the nearby islands of Atauro and Jaco, and the exclave of Oecusse.
It is bordered by Indonesia to the west and Australia to the south, across the Timor Sea.
Population of East Timor
East Timor has a population of about 1.3 million people, most of whom are Roman Catholic and speak Tetum and Portuguese as official languages.
History of East Timor
East Timor has a long and turbulent history, marked by centuries of colonial rule, resistance, and struggle for independence.
The first inhabitants of the island were Australoid and Melanesian peoples, who arrived thousands of years ago.
The Portuguese began to trade with Timor in the 16th century and colonized it in the 17th century, naming it Portuguese Timor.
The Dutch also claimed the western half of the island, which became part of the Dutch East Indies.
During World War II, the Japanese occupied East Timor and fought against the Allied forces, which included Australian and Timorese guerrillas.
After the war, Portugal resumed its colonial administration, but faced growing nationalist movements that demanded self-determination.
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In 1974, Portugal announced its intention to decolonize East Timor, but the process was interrupted by a civil war between rival political factions.
On November 28, 1975, the Revolutionary Front of Independent East Timor (Fretilin) declared the country’s independence, but was invaded by Indonesia nine days later.
Indonesia annexed East Timor as its 27th province, calling it Timor Timur.
The Indonesian occupation of East Timor was brutal and oppressive, resulting in an estimated 102,800 deaths, mostly from violence, hunger, and disease.
The East Timorese people resisted the occupation through armed and diplomatic means, with the support of international solidarity movements.
In 1996, two East Timorese activists, Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo and José Ramos-Horta, were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts to end the conflict.
In 1998, after the fall of the Indonesian dictator Suharto, a new government agreed to hold a referendum on the status of East Timor.
On August 30, 1999, an overwhelming majority of East Timorese voted for independence,
But faced a violent backlash from pro-Indonesian militias, backed by the Indonesian military.
The militias killed about 1,400 people and displaced 300,000 more, while destroying much of the country’s infrastructure.
The United Nations intervened to stop the violence and restore order, sending a peacekeeping force and an administration to oversee the transition to independence.
On May 20, 2002, East Timor became the first new sovereign state of the 21st century,
With Xanana Gusmão as its first president and Mari Alkatiri as its first prime minister.
Since then, East Timor has faced several challenges, such as political instability, poverty, corruption,
and natural disasters, but has also made significant progress in state-building, democracy, human rights, and development.
Economy of East Timor
East Timor’s economy is largely dependent on its natural resources, especially oil and gas,
which account for more than 95% of its export revenues and 75% of its government revenues.
The country has a sovereign wealth fund, called the Petroleum Fund, which holds about $17.8 billion as of 2020,
And is used to finance public spending and save for the future.
Aside from oil and gas, East Timor also produces coffee, which is one of its main agricultural exports.
The country’s GDP per capita was $1,970 in 2019, making it one of the poorest countries in Asia.
However, the country has a potential for economic diversification and growth, especially in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and light industries.
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Currency of East Timor.
The Currency of East Timor is Centavo coins alongside US dollar banknotes and coins.
Centavo Introduced in 2000 to replace the Indonesian rupiah.
One centavo is equal to one US cent.
Coins issued for general circulation are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 and 200 centavos and the coins feature images of local flora and fauna.
Country Code of East Timor
The Country Code of East Timor is +670
Culture of East Timor
East Timor’s culture is a blend of indigenous, Portuguese, Indonesian, and other influences, reflecting its diverse and complex history.
Flag of East Timor
The country’s flag is one of its most important symbols, representing its identity and aspirations.
The flag consists of a red field with a black isosceles triangle on the hoist side, overlapping a yellow triangle, and bearing a white five-pointed star in the center.
The black represents the colonial oppression, the yellow represents the struggle for independence,
the red represents the blood of the martyrs, and the white star represents the hope for peace and prosperity.
East Timor is a member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries, an observer of the Pacific Islands Forum,
and an applicant for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Pronounced of Timor-Leste
The country’s official name is the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, which is pronounced as /tiˈmoɾ ˈlɛʃtɨ/ in Portuguese and /tiˈmɔːr ˈlɛʃteɪ/ in English.
Abbreviation of East Timor
The country’s international code is TL and its internet domain is .tl.
East Timor is a young nation with a rich history and culture, and a promising future.
The country offers a variety of attractions for visitors, such as its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and friendly people.
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Best Places of East Timor
Some of the best places to visit in East Timor are:
Capital of East Timor
Dili:
The capital and largest city of East Timor, Dili is a vibrant and cosmopolitan place,
with a mix of colonial and modern architecture, lively markets, museums, monuments, and beaches.
Some of the highlights include the Cristo Rei statue, the Resistance Museum, the Presidential Palace, and the Timor Plaza shopping mall.
Atauro Island:
A small island off the coast of Dili, Atauro Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The island has stunning coral reefs, rich marine life, and pristine beaches, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and swimming.
The island also has a unique culture and history, with traditional villages, handicrafts, and festivals.
Baucau:
The second-largest city in East Timor, Baucau is a charming and historic town, with a colonial and Indonesian influence.
The town has a scenic location on a plateau, overlooking the sea and the mountains.
Some of the attractions include the old town, the cathedral, the market, the hot springs, and the nearby caves.
Jaco Island:
A small and uninhabited island at the eastern tip of East Timor, Jaco Island is a sacred and secluded place, surrounded by turquoise waters and white sands.
The island is part of the Nino Konis Santana National Park, which protects the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the region.
The island can only be reached by boat, and visitors need to obtain permission from the local elders.
Maubisse:
A picturesque town in the central highlands of East Timor, Maubisse is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and exploring the rural scenery and culture.
The town has a cool and pleasant climate, and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
Some of the attractions include the old fort, the market, the coffee plantations, and the nearby Mount Ramelau, the highest peak in the country.
East Timor is a country that deserves more attention and appreciation from the world,
as it has overcome many hardships and challenges, and has preserved its unique and diverse identity and heritage.
It is a country that welcomes visitors with open arms and warm hearts, and invites them to discover its beauty and charm.
East Timor is a country that is worth visiting and exploring, as it has much to offer and to share.
Landmarks of East Timor
Some of the landmarks in East Timor that you might be interested in are:
Cristo Rei:
This is a 27-meter-tall statue of Jesus Christ that stands on a hill overlooking the capital city of Dili.
It is the second largest statue of Jesus Christ in the world, and a symbol of the country’s identity and faith.
You can climb up to the top of the statue for a panoramic view of the city and the sea,
or visit the small museum at the base that showcases the history and culture of East Timor.
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Jaco Island:
This is a small and uninhabited island at the eastern tip of East Timor, surrounded by turquoise waters and white sands.
It is part of the Nino Konis Santana National Park, which protects the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the region.
The island is considered sacred by the local people, and you need to obtain permission from the elders to visit it.
You can enjoy snorkeling, diving, fishing, or swimming in the clear waters, or relax on the pristine beach.
Mount Ramelau:
This is the highest peak in East Timor, reaching 2,963 meters above sea level.
It is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and exploring the rural scenery and culture.
The mountain has a cool and pleasant climate, and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
You can also visit the statue of the Virgin Mary at the summit, which is a pilgrimage site for many Timorese Catholics.
Tais Market:
This is a colorful and lively market in Dili, where you can find a variety of products, such as textiles, handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, spices, and more.
Tais is a traditional woven cloth that is unique to East Timor, and each region has its own patterns and colors.
You can buy tais as souvenirs, or learn how to make them from the local women.
The market is also a great place to interact with the locals and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
Cities of East Timor
Some of the cities in East Timor that you might want to know more about are:
Dili:
This is the capital and largest city of East Timor, with a population of about 222,323 people.
It is located on the northern coast of the country, facing the Wetar Strait.
Dili is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, with a mix of colonial and modern architecture, lively markets, museums, monuments, and beaches.
Some of the highlights include the Cristo Rei statue, the Resistance Museum, the Presidential Palace, and the Timor Plaza shopping mall.
Dili is also the main gateway to other parts of the country, as well as the nearby island of Atauro.
Baucau:
This is the second-largest city in East Timor, with a population of about 14,960 people.
It is located on the eastern part of the country, on a plateau overlooking the sea and the mountains.
Baucau has a charming and historic character, with a colonial and Indonesian influence.
The city has a scenic old town, a cathedral, a market, a hot spring, and a nearby cave.
Baucau also has an airport that once accommodated an influx of overseas jets and planes during the country’s political instability.
Ermera:
This is a town in the central highlands of East Timor, with a population of about 8,907 people.
It is situated in one of the most beautiful and fertile regions of the country, known for its coffee plantations and mountain views.
Ermera was once the former capital of the East Timorese community during the Portuguese colonial era, and has a rich history and culture.
The town has an old fort, a market, and a nearby peak called Mount Ramelau, which is the highest in the country.
Suai:
This is a town on the southern coast of East Timor, with a population of about 9,866 people.
It is the capital of the Cova Lima municipality, and a hub for trade and commerce.
Suai has a long and sandy beach, which is popular for swimming and fishing.
The town also has a memorial for the victims of the 1999 massacre, when pro-Indonesian militias killed hundreds of civilians and priests in a church.
Suai is also close to the border with Indonesia, and has a cultural and linguistic diversity.
Lospalos:
This is a town on the eastern tip of East Timor, with a population of about 17,186 people.
It is the capital of the Lautem municipality, and a center for education and health.
Lospalos has a unique and diverse culture, with influences from the Portuguese, the Indonesians, and the local Fataluku people.
The town has a museum, a market, and a traditional house.
Lospalos is also near the Nino Konis Santana National Park, which protects the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
Beaches of East Timor
East Timor has many beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, or relaxing.
Some of the most popular and stunning beaches are:
Areia Branca:
This beach is part of the Cape Fatucama region, near the capital city of Dili.
It is a tropical paradise with white sand, palm trees, and clear water.
You can enjoy freshly cooked seafood, drink a coconut, and watch whales swim along the coastline during migration season.
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Atauro Island:
This is a small island off the coast of Dili, with a rich biodiversity and culture.
The island has amazing coral reefs, colorful fish, and pristine beaches, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and swimming.
You can also visit the traditional villages, handicrafts, and festivals of the local people, who are known for their hospitality and friendliness.
Jaco Island:
This is a small and uninhabited island at the eastern tip of East Timor, surrounded by turquoise waters and white sands.
It is part of the Nino Konis Santana National Park, which protects the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
The island is considered sacred by the local people, and you need to obtain permission from the elders to visit it.
You can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this secluded place, or explore the underwater world with its diverse marine life.
One Dollar Beach:
This is a beach in Dili region, named after the fee that the locals charge for parking.
It is one of the best places for solitary relaxation, away from the crowds and noise of the city.
The beach has soft sand, clear water, and a peaceful atmosphere.
You can also admire the coral reefs and the fish that live in them, or rent a kayak or a paddle board to explore the coast.
Climate of East Timor
The climate in East Timor is tropical, hot, and humid, with two main seasons:
a wet season from December to March, and a dry season from June to September.
The average temperature is around 31 °C (88 °F) throughout the year, but it can vary depending on the altitude and the location.
The north coast is drier and hotter than the south coast, which receives more rainfall and has a cooler climate.
The interior of the country has a mountain range, where the temperature can drop below 20 °C (68 °F) at night, especially in the dry season.
The highest peak is Mount Ramelau, which is 2,963 meters (9,721 feet) high and can be very cold.
The best time to visit East Timor is from April to July, when the weather is sunny, dry, and pleasant.
This is also the whale-watching season, as many species of whales migrate through the Wetar Strait.
Time from December to March, when the weather is rainy, cloudy, and muggy.
This is also the time when floods and landslides can occur, making some roads inaccessible.
East Timor has a rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage, which can be enjoyed in different ways depending on the climate.
Some of the attractions include the beaches, the coral reefs, the islands, the villages, the museums, the monuments, and the festivals.
Borders of East Timor
East Timor is a country that borders only two other countries: Indonesia and Australia.
Indonesia is its western neighbor on the island of Timor, while Australia is its southern neighbor across the Timor Sea.
Here are some more details about East Timor’s borders:
The land border between East Timor and Indonesia is 253 km (157 mi) long,
and follows the historical division of the island between the Portuguese and the Dutch colonial powers.
The border was established by the Treaty of Lisbon in 1859, and confirmed by the Treaty of Perth in 1904.
The border was disputed by Indonesia after it invaded and annexed East Timor in 1975,
but was recognized by Indonesia after East Timor gained its independence in 2002.
The border is mostly marked by natural features, such as rivers, mountains, and forests, but also has some artificial markers, such as pillars and fences.
The border is crossed by several roads and bridges, and has several official and unofficial border posts.
The border is generally peaceful.
The maritime border between East Timor and Australia is about 706 km (439 mi) long, and follows the median line between the two countries’ coastlines.
The border was established by the Timor Sea Treaty in 2002,
and modified by the Treaty on Certain Maritime Arrangements in the Timor Sea in 2006,
and the Treaty Between Australia and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Establishing Their Maritime Boundaries in the Timor Sea in 2018.
The border delimits the exclusive economic zones and the continental shelves of the two countries,
and also defines the joint development area for the exploitation of oil and gas resources in the Timor Sea.
The border is monitored by the two countries’ navies and coast guards, and has several offshore platforms and pipelines.
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