Kor Timor – Developing a more colourful Timor-Leste through innovative craft

Kor Timor (Colour Timor) is a social enterprise that is operated by an all Timorese Staff Team. The team has a passion to develop individual skills and at the same time is inspired to create and sell unique Timorese craft.

Kor Timor was established in 2006 through the support of two Australian women. This enterprise now operates by an all Timorese staff in Taibesse, overseen by the Manager Domingos Savio Gomes Marcal.

“This is a new position for me, to manage 22 staff. I also have to work hard to achieve quality products that “win and satisfy the customer”, said Manager Savio.

Taibesse, is where the production is undertaken, creative ideas are cultivated and products invented. Taibesse also has a shop where customers can view and buy wonderful, colourful, locally made unique items such as gifts custom made in traditional Timorese textiles, known as Tais, using colourful recycled paper; note books key rings, handmade “skin sensitive soap” and many more wonderful souvenirs perfect to give away as presents back home or that can be used to decorate any home.

Manager Savio added one of the features of Kor Timor products are their uniqueness.

“We are the only shop in Timor-Leste that makes gift boxes with the use of our traditional textiles.”

From the sewing room, they also produce unique cushion covers, along with aprons, mobile phone or sun glass pouches’ and many more exciting items.

“Our passion is to promote traditional products. We also strongly believe in a social responsibility,” said also Manager Savio.

Recently, two staff members visited Melbourne, Australia to undertake a culture exchange study tour, sponsored by their Australian donor, Ms. Jill Forsythe. The visit for staff members Fatima and Mezu, was to build on skills, undergo training in “customer service”, jewellery making, English, view the diverse range of displays in shops and gather ideas for future marketing strategies. This tour also included public speaking to encourage funding support, personal health checks and “fun times” participating in new adventures.

Tours can be undertaken at Taibesse, to see the production in action. View the process in the making, see the amazing production of colourful re-cycled paper. (Appointments must be arranged). Taibesse offers wholesale prices for all items.

Kor Timor now has a new shop in the Timor Plaza, the “in place for shopping”.

Visit Kor Timor and discover the wonderful world of colour, meet the staff Inez and Helena who will show you the exclusive range of traditional and “locally made” products.

(Main front entrance, turn left and follow the path to Kor Timor.

For more information or for orders:

Contact: Domingos Savio Gomes Marcal

Email: neviforever@gmail.com

Phone: +670 733 4460 (Timor-Leste)