Director's statement
My journey with 'Sikat Subar', my debut feature-length documentary, began in early 2018. As I delved into the world of Timor-Leste, I found myself particularly drawn to the ancient tradition of cockfighting, often referred to by the locals as a "national sport," due to the constant presence and profound symbolism of the rooster within Timorese culture. However, I quickly realized that the rooster, far beyond its association with fighting, serves as a window into the rich cultural, historical, and social tapestry of Timor-Leste.
Initially, I viewed cockfighting mainly as a form of gambling and entertainment, which conflicted with my values. But my curiosity went beyond the fighting ring; I was fascinated by the rooster's constant presence and symbolism in Timorese culture, reflecting deep aspects of life, tradition, and identity of this people.
As I delved deeper into the nuances of Timor-Leste's culture, I began to uncover a rich tapestry of traditions, values, and beliefs shaping the daily lives of the Timorese, including traditional laws that emphasize the sanctity of nature and the harmony of human relations. These tenets, along with other cultural facets I came across, not only made me rethink my initial stance on cockfighting but also highlighted the multifaceted nature of Timorese society.
These insights were instrumental in shaping the narrative and approach of 'Sikat Subar', allowing me to present a more balanced and holistic view of Timor-Leste, taking into account both the ethical challenges of cockfighting and the intrinsic values woven into its culture. This discovery prompted reflection.
While cockfighting may be rooted in ancient rituals, I wondered if its contemporary form aligns with the traditional customs and laws. My own cultural experiences, when contrasted with the delicate balance of tradition, ethics, and human necessities in Timor-Leste—especially regarding the historic significance of cockfighting—became the driving inspiration for 'Sikat Subar'.
In my exploration, the image and symbolism of the rooster consistently stood out. This emblem, deeply woven into the tapestry of Timor-Leste's history and its people's identity, provided a unique lens to examine the society. Through the rooster's multifaceted presence, I recognized it as a thread that traverses diverse layers of the Timorese narrative, enabling me to delve deeper into the intricacies of their collective journey.
A pivotal moment in my journey with 'Sikat Subar' occurred upon discovering a blog post by Ângela Carrascalão, titled 'História de Galos' and published on July 2, 2006. The insights and reflections shared by Carrascalão not only ignited my curiosity but also served as a profound catalyst for the project. This article, weaving together tales of roosters with the societal nuances of Timor-Leste, underscored the intricate connections between tradition, identity, and resilience in the face of historical adversities. It compelled me to explore beyond the surface of cockfighting, into the depths of Timor-Leste's cultural spirit and its people's enduring strength.
I must emphasize, however, that neither I nor 'Sikat Subar' endorse or glorify cockfighting. Globally, the questions of ethics, traditions, and entertainment surrounding activities like cockfighting can also be extended to other activities such as fishing and hunting. Furthermore, in regions like Timor-Leste, cockfighting has a social aspect tied to human basic needs, providing employment opportunities for many.
My intent with this documentary is to explore the ethics of cockfighting as a multifaceted issue, navigating the delicate balance between tradition, cultural heritage, essential needs, and animal welfare.
With 'Sikat Subar', my goal was to transcend the narrative about cockfighting to offer a deeper insight into Timorese society, using the symbolism of the rooster as a guiding thread to explore the struggles, resilience, and indomitable spirit of the Timorese people. It is a sensory voyage through the rich history and vibrant culture of Timor-Leste, illuminating the stories of a people who have faced immense challenges, including the weight of 500 years of colonization and an attempted genocide. Yet, they remain largely unseen by the wider world.
As 'Sikat Subar' unfolds, I aspire to see it as more than just a documentary but as a catalyst for conversations that encourage audiences to reflect on the intricate relationships between tradition, ethics, and human needs in various cultural contexts.
I invite you to join me on this unique exploration.
Diogo Pessoa de Andrade