STORIES FROM THE FIELD

Early in 2025, MSI's Field Leader Cyndi visited several sites in Borneo, Indonesia. She shared some highlights from her journey:

The road to Wuran village in Central Kalimantan is long and rough. There were mostly unpaved wide roads, built for coal mining trucks. As our car rumbled along the dusty path from Matarah city, it became clear just how remote this village is. But what we found at the end of that road made every bump worthwhile.

At the heart of this quiet village stands Anggrek Wuran kindergarten. A classroom full of vibrant children welcomed me. It was pure joy to be among them. I watched as little hands shot up excitedly when the teacher asked who wanted to lead a prayer. “Hands reach up, reaching for the stars. Hands spread wide, like a bird in flight. Hands stretch forward, like a fish swimming,” they sang in chorus, their gestures full of life. Then, sitting neatly, they prayed: “Dear God, we are ready to go home. Protect us on our way.”

Parents watch lovingly from outside the windows, their faces filled with pride. After the school day ends, the playground fills with laughter. Children run and swing under the trees, and even junior high students from across the street come over to say hello to me.

The teaching team is small but deeply devoted:

  • Suni, the principal, leads with grace while juggling multiple roles, including attending meetings with the local government officials.
  • Ina, a full-time teacher, pours love into her students and has never traveled far—her fear of flying keeps her grounded in the village.
  • Marly, officially the cleaning staff, is often seen quietly supporting the children and helping with classroom activities.

During our visit, Dumadi and Lena, a respected MSI site leaders, was welcomed like a village chief. They joined us as we listened to the hopes and dreams of the staff for their beloved school.

The school has two classrooms: one set up as a main classroom with desks and chairs, and another used for creative play and group activities, since it doesn’t have any furniture yet. With support from Mustard Seed, the old, rotting floor has been replaced with polished wood. Sunlight shines through the windows onto colorful, handmade learning posters, each one showing the dedication and creativity of the teachers.

My eyes were drawn to a few areas in need of repair. The ceiling sags in some spots, and several wooden planks will need replacing. A small office and a storage room also show signs of wear and could benefit from renovation. Yet despite these challenges, the school team holds onto big dreams: to furnish the classrooms more fully, strengthen the building’s structure, and build a fence to keep the playground secure and their students safe.

In Anggrek Wuran, education and faith grow side by side. The kindergarten may be simple, but I believe the spirit within its walls is powerful. It is fueled by hope, sustained by prayer, and made possible through the generosity of those who believe in planting seeds of hope in small villages.

Please pray and consider supporting the work in Anggrek Wuran.
Current needs include constructing a fence.

Watch the video of Borneo 2025 Visit below: