[3] The house is a representation of the Baileo Maluku culture and has an important function in the life of the community[2] that is why the structure forms part of the identity of any community in the Moluccas.
There are instances where the baileo serves as a mosque or church[4] or adjacent to one.
[5] This is the case when the house serves as a repository for sacred objects[1] and a place of traditional ceremonies[1] in addition to its function as a place for community meetings.
[5] It also has a large size and unique appearance when compared to other buildings in its vicinity.
[6][7] It is traditionally built from local materials such as planked timber, cement, stone or brick with wood shingle, and thatch or zinc roof.