Timor Leste and the Crocodile. Artwork adapted from Emilie Languedoc for Southeast Asia Globe (Languedoc, 2020).
The Legend of Lafaek Diak
Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, lived a small crocodile. Like many young crocodiles, he dreamed of growing big and strong, to become one of the greatest crocodiles ever. But as the seasons changed and time passed, the land became dry and food grew scarce. The little crocodile, unable to find enough to eat, became weak and sad. In desperation, he left his home and travelled far into the ocean in search of food. Still unsuccessful, he returned to land and lay down, ready for death to come.
But instead of death, a small boy appeared. The boy, seeing the crocodile’s plight, took the time to feed and nurture him back to health. Grateful for the boy’s kindness, the crocodile promised, “Boy, thank you, you have saved my life and I will not forget this. Whenever you need my help, call me and I will come and do whatever it is you ask.” With that, the crocodile left.
Years later, the boy returned to the same spot and called for the crocodile. When the crocodile arrived, he asked, “What is it that you want, boy?” The boy replied, “I am ready and I want to see the world, this is my dream.” The crocodile answered, “Climb on my back and point where you want to go.”
They travelled together for many years, journeying east and following the sun, until one day the crocodile stopped. “It is time for me to die, brother,” he said, “but as a gift for your kindness, I will make you a home. I will become an island for you and your children, where you can live and watch the sunrise above the sea.” With this, the crocodile died, and within minutes, he began to grow. The ridges on his back stretched high into mountains, and to this day, he is known as the island of Timor-Leste.
The Crocodile: Timor-Leste’s National Animal
While there is no formal law naming the crocodile as Timor-Leste’s official national animal, it is widely recognised as such throughout the country and abroad. The crocodile symbolises resilience, protection, and the ancestral connection between the Timorese people and their land. You will find crocodile motifs in local art, community rituals, and even government insignia.
Coffee and Culture: A Taste of Timor’s Story
So, what does all this have to do with coffee? Just like the legendary crocodile, Timor-Leste’s coffee tells a story of transformation, connection, and place. Grown in the rich volcanic soils shaped by the island’s dramatic landscape, Timor coffee is known for its smooth, earthy flavours and unique character.
Every sip honours generations of farmers, the spirit of the land, and a promise to grow something good, together. Come taste the story for yourself, and be part of what comes next.
Disclaimer: This blog post was written by Mayara Genaro, with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to support research and writing.
Sources:
Languedoc, E. (2020) Timor Leste and the Crocodile. Artwork adapted for Southeast Asia Globe. Available at: https://southeastasiaglobe.com/timor-leste-crocodile/
Walton, K. (2022, February 15). Timor-Leste’s sacred crocodiles: A blessing or a curse? Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2022/2/15/timor-lestes-sacred-crocodiles-a-blessing-or-a-curse
Australian Museum (n.d.) The Legend of the Crocodile. Available at: https://australian.museum/learn/expeditions/timor-leste/.
Cultural Survival (n.d.) Timor-Leste: Crocodile as Ancestor. Available at: https://www.culturalsurvival.org/publications/cultural-survival-quarterly/timor-leste-crocodile-ancestor.
UNESCO (n.d.) Timor-Leste. Available at: https://ich.unesco.org/en/state/timor-leste-TL.
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