The Mentawai people are an indigenous group residing in the Mentawai Islands, located off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. They are known for their unique culture, traditional practices, and close connection to nature. The Mentawai people primarily rely on hunting, fishing, and gathering for their sustenance, and they live in communal longhouses called uma. Their society is rich in spiritual beliefs, often centered around animism, where they believe in the presence of spirits in nature. The Mentawai people are also recognized for their intricate body tattoos, which hold cultural significance and represent their identity.