Traditionally made of silver, it is shaped like the horns of a water buffalo.
The buffalo horns are a widely used symbol in the cultures of Timor-Leste, both on the Kaibauk and on the roofs of traditional sacred houses (uma lulik in Tetun).
[1] The counterpart to the Kaibauk is the Belak, a round bronze disc that is worn on the chest.
[1] Kaibauk and Belak are meant to complement each other, their combination bringing harmony and balance.
[4] It is often represented on Timorese heraldry, and can be found on the flags of several political parties, such has KOTA, PDRT, PPT, UDT and UNDERTIM.