Odd handle for a Kampilan?

[Bill]

Originally Posted by Rick

it is very different from the norm .

Everything about this sword is different from the norm.
The fiber on the hilt & sheath appears to be abaca, which is indigenous to the Philippines. A quick search shows the Dutch introduced it to Sumatra & the British introduced it to Borneo for rope making. I didn't see anything about Timor.
While I agree Timor is most likely the source, it seems odd the originator didn't use a local product.
Nice & unique sword.