The values of the Tropical Forest Ecosystem for the Continuation of Mentawai Cultural Life, from the perspective of the Sikerei and Simatak, are:
* The forest is an integral part of the lives of the Sikerei, for performing rituals and treating the sick. This means that the closer the forest is to a community’s residence, the easier and quicker traditional healing can be, so that those suffering from illness, both physically and mentally, can be cured. The forest serves as a spiritual force for the sikerei in their interactions with spirits, rituals, and healing practices.
* Without the forest, the sikerei would not be able to demonstrate their greatness, as the forest is part of the kerei’s power, enhancing their level of experience and seniority.

The Mentawai Islands have existed for five hundred thousand years, but there is no evidence of when the first humans arrived. Most of the population today still adheres to animist beliefs, with the remainder being Christian and Muslim. Initially, locals believed in the Sabulungan religion, a belief that everything from humans to monkeys, rocks, and the weather has a separate spirit that roams at will. Traditional ceremonies by Sikerei, or shamans, are usually performed during weddings and upon entering a new home, with the aim of warding off evil spirits.

Some must-visit villages include Rorougot, Maopu, Matotonan, Attabai, and Buttui. Getting to these destinations isn’t as easy as you might think; you’ll have to cross a long river and several winding roads, each with different routes and varying timeframes.