The Heartwarming Story of 

Umarato Resort

When the pandemic began, the world seemed to shrink, and uncertainty grew. For Edward Chen and his family, it was a time of reflection and profound change. They lived a comfortable life in Jakarta, but as the crisis unfolded, a deep, unshakable call to action stirred within them. Edward, his wife, and their two young children decided to leave behind their familiar world and return to Edward’s hometown of Sumba—a place where their presence could make a world of difference.

With nothing but their courage and a shared sense of purpose, they moved to a remote area in Sumba. There was no electricity or running water, and they found themselves living in a small 3x4 meter tent. Each day, they managed with just four gallons of water for cooking, washing, and bathing. Their new life was starkly different from their previous comforts, yet their spirits remained unbowed. 

Their journey began with a dream to bring light to a land that had been shrouded in darkness. Edward and his family embarked on the challenging task of installing electricity poles. This wasn’t just about powering a resort; it was about lighting up the lives of entire villages for the very first time. The moment the first flicker of light illuminated the village, it symbolized hope and new beginnings, a testament to their unwavering resolve.

But their mission was far from over. Umarato Resort was envisioned as more than just a place to stay—it was to be a sanctuary of giving and transformation. Edward and his family shared vegetables from their garden with the villagers, helping to nourish bodies and spirits alike. They drilled wells to provide clean, fresh water, easing the daily struggles of those around them.

Perhaps the most touching part of their endeavor was the creation of the Umarato Learning Center. In the heart of the community, this center became a beacon of hope for about 40 local children. Each day began with a nourishing glass of milk, a simple yet profound gesture to ensure the children were healthy and ready to embrace the gift of learning. This was more than just education; it was a lifeline, a chance for these children to dream and achieve beyond the constraints of their circumstances.

Guests at Umarato Resort are invited into this extraordinary journey. They have the opportunity to volunteer at the learning center, contributing to the nurturing of young minds and sharing in the joy of witnessing dreams take flight. Each guest becomes a part of this heartfelt mission, adding their own chapter to the story of hope and kindness that Edward and his family began.

Umarato Resort stands as a testament to the power of love, sacrifice, and community. Every visit, every act of kindness, weaves into the larger narrative of transforming lives and uplifting the human spirit. Your stay here is more than a mere experience; it’s a chance to be part of something profoundly meaningful.

Thank you for being here and for joining in this touching story of compassion. Your presence and support continue to inspire and change lives, turning Umarato Resort into a symbol of hope and shared humanity.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Edward Chen  

Founder & CEO of Umarato Resort