Helong people are one of the indigenous inhabitants of Timor Island, in Indonesia.[1] Most of them live in Kupang Regency, namely in West Kupang and Central Kupang; and some also settled in Flores Island and Semau Island.[2][3] Their livelihoods are mainly farming, hunting, fishing, and making traditional crafts.[2]
| Regions with significant populations | |
|---|---|
 Indonesia (Kupang Regency, Semau Island, Flores Island) | |
| Languages | |
| Helong language, Indonesian language | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity (predominantly) | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Atoni, Kemak people, Rotenese people |
They speak a native language called Helong, which has two dialects, the Helong Semau dialect and the Eastern Land Helong dialect.[2] Helong speakers are found in four villages on the South-Western coast of West Timor, as well as on Semau Island, a small island just off the coast of West Timor.[4]
The smallest Helong family system is a nuclear family, which then joins into a limited larger family (ngalo).[2] Some ngalo joins to form a clan (ingu) which is led by a clan leader (koka ana).[2] In terms of social strata, the ancient Helong community was divided into three layers, the nobility (usif), ordinary people (tob), and slaves (ata).[2]
Notable people
See also
References
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