December 14, 2025, The Timor-Leste National Commission for UNESCO, together with members of the National Committee for the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Timor-Leste (KOMNAS PKI), commemorated National Tais Day 2025 at the Presidential Palace, Dili, Timor-Leste.
The 2025 celebration was held under the theme โWith Tais, Strengthen Our National Identityโ and took place over four (4) days, from 11 to 14 December 2025. The program featured a wide range of cultural and educational activities, including the Soru Tais Competition, Soru Tais Exhibition, Seminars, Fair, Cultural Exchange, and concluded with the Tais Fashion Week. These activities were participated in by Soru-naโin from 12 municipalities, Atauro and RAEOA, as well as students and community members.
The cultural value of Tais, Timor-Lesteโs traditional textile, is not only emphasized at the national level but has also gained international recognition. On 14 December 2025, Tais was officially inscribed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, affirming its outstanding cultural significance. Today, Tais is widely showcased across national events, proudly worn and presented by communities, civil society organizations, public and private institutions, and state officials, and is frequently exchanged as a meaningful cultural souvenir.
Beyond its cultural symbolism, the weaving and production of Tais has developed into a medium-scale economic activity at the national level, contributing to household incomes, particularly in remote and rural areas.
The Timor-Leste National Commission for UNESCO further highlights the integration of Tais into the national school curriculum beginning in the 2026 school year as a significant milestone in safeguarding this heritage. This initiative ensures increased visibility, transmission of knowledge, and long-term sustainability for future generations, reflecting Timor-Lesteโs strong commitment to cultural preservation within the framework of 21st-century education.