Koe Pontam!
The enchanting portrait of nature with white sandy beaches and unforgettable sunsets makes East Nusa Tenggara a popular choice among travelers. Various ethnic groups such as Atoni, Manggarai, Sumba, Helong, Solor, Ngada, Rote, Lio, and Alor come together in diversity in this province, which also welcomes many immigrant communities. Its tourist destinations are truly captivating, featuring natural wonders like Komodo Island, Lake Kelimutu, Mount Mutis, Waimarang Waterfall, Alor Island, Mali Beach, Nemberala Beach, Pink Beach, and many more.
At the TMII pavilion, East Nusa Tenggara presents its friendly and meaningful cultural touch. It is evident in the main building, the traditional Ende Sa’o Ria house, adorned with a front facade featuring glass showcases displaying traditional attire from all regencies/cities in East Nusa Tenggara. Traditional items are displayed here, including woven palm leaf products, coconut shell crafts, Patola and Sasando woven motifs made from palm leaves, bridal attire, and traditional musical instruments like gongs and tambur.
There is also the traditional house of Rote (umatua) in the west, featuring traditional costumes and a more modern Sasando, as well as an illustration of the Ti’i Langga hat, a distinctive headgear native to Rote Ndao Regency, showcased atop its traditional house. The traditional house of Alor is located in the east, displaying ceremonial attire of the royal tribe and various scarves. The house from Sumba Regency in East Sumba, called uma mbatangu, or known as uma kalada in West Sumba, is also present in the pavilion. To the east, there stands a barn (lopo) from South Central Timor Regency, with a traditional semi-circular four-pillar stage. The harvest is stored at the top, while the bottom serves as a place to welcome guests and carry out daily activities such as weaving.
At the Nusa Tenggara Timur Pavilion, there is also a traditional house from Ngada Regency known as Sa’o Ngada Ine Sina. Its architectural structure nearly mirrors the authenticity of its traditional counterpart, with walls crafted from wood and a roof made of thatch. Aside from being a place of residence, this house also serves as a venue for conducting traditional ceremonies.
DID YOU KNOW?
One of the endangered ancient species resides in East Nusa Tenggara! It’s the Komodo or Varanus komodoensis that is found on Komodo Island. Interestingly, these creatures patiently stalk their prey and only pursue those that are weak and helpless. With just one bite, a Komodo can immediately disable its prey.
