When we shared an update with you in 2025 that land had been secured and the first foundations were going in, this was a huge step forward – for the Suku Mentawai community, and for everyone who helped make it possible.

Since then, things have kept moving. Not quickly, and not without challenge – but the Mentawai team do continue to find a way. Now, we’re excited to share something special with you.

The Mentawai Cultural Arts and Education Centre and Suku Mentawai office space is entering its final stage.

Mentawai Cultural Arts & Education Centre in progress – Images provided by Suku Mentawai

The building follows the form of a traditional Uma – the Mentawai longhouse. Raised on stilts, with its steep thatched roof and strong geometric patterns across the front, this is Mentawai architecture.

But what really stands out isn’t just how it looks, but how it has been built.

Every piece of timber has been sourced locally. The floors beneath your feet, the walls, the railings, the benches, the doors and windows – everything has been shaped and assembled by local hands. You can feel the care in it. The time. The pride. This truly is an expression of Mentawai culture and a legacy taking shape before our very eyes – so much more than we imagined.

Mentawai Cultural Arts & Education Centre in progress – Images provided by Suku Mentawai

Getting to this point hasn’t been simple. Building on top of a hill on a remote island comes with real challenges – materials take time to source, transport and prepare; unforeseen costs arise and plans seemingly impossible to stick to.

But the team have worked through challenge after challenge; banding together, creating patiently, thoughtfully – and it shows.

The Suku Mentawai team are creating a space that will be used, lived in, and passed on. A place where knowledge is shared, culture is practiced, and young people can stay connected to who they are and where they come from.

This is the part we really want you to see in this project – this Centre is so much more than just a paid job, building to a plan. For the Mentawai team this is instinctual, acting upon and bringing to life an age-old culture. A moment in time that is both now and the future.

To everyone who has given support and been part of this journey, thank you. As the Suku Mentawai and community soon begin to use and shape this space in their own way, this story will continue to grow, create and inspire. Thank you all for playing such an integral part.

Further tax-deductible donations to support completion of this project can be made via IEF, GoFundMe or (for US-based donors) Creative Visions.

Masura’ bagatta – Thank you, from all of us at IEF and Suku Mentawai