The story of Timor Island
The hidden story of the Timor Leste that you might have not heard about. The island of Timor-Leste is said to have formed on the back of a crocodile called Lafaek Diak, whose bond with a human boy was so strong that when Diak passed away, the ridges on his back transformed into the mountains of Timor-Leste. In a distant land there lived a small crocodile. Like every other small crocodile Lafaek wanted to grow bigger and stronger. Lafaeks dreams was about to shatter when the lands became dry and food was scarce. The crocodile couldn't grow big and strong instead it grew weak and sad. In hopelessness, he left home and journeyed far into the ocean in search of food. Having failed to find food, he returned to land and lay down, prepared for death. “Life doesn’t happen as you plan always.” Instead of death, a small boy arrived, showing sympathy to the crocodile and dedicating time to feed and nurse him back to health. The boy was affectionate and caring towards Lafaek. They started developing a beautiful bond. After fully recovering, the crocodile expressed gratitude to the little boy, saying, "Thank you for saving my life. I'll never forget your kindness. If you ever need me, just call, and I'll be there to help." With those words, the crocodile departed. Years passed by. And the boy finally wanted to do something that he wished for a very long time. Lafaek the crocodile’s thought came to the boy. He went to the spot where they last met. He called for Lafaek and he immediately appeared to him. The crocodile asked the boy what he wanted. The boy said “I want to see the world and it is my dream. I want you to come with me”. The crocodile asked the boy to get on his back and the asked him to direct him wherever he wants to go. The journey continued and they travelled for many years without pause. One day while travelling East, the sun came down and the crocodile came to halt. It’s my time to go, brother. As a token of gratitude for your kindness. I'll become an island for you and your children. You can live there and see the sunrise over the sea." Lafaek passed away. Within minutes, a transformation began. He grew and grew until the ridges on his back stretched high up into mountains. To this day, he is known as the island of Timor-Leste. This story deeply connects with everyone in the nation. Crocodile is considered sacred to the people of Timor. This connection explains why crocodiles are seen as sacred and why it's often against the law and culturally unacceptable to harm or kill them.
