Scouts leaders unveil the spirit of togetherness by fostering camaraderie and community spirit among members
Scouting, as a global youth movement, is steadfast in its commitment to fostering personal growth and outdoor exploration.
Regardless of social class and creed, scouts impart valuable lessons to young individuals, emphasising the significance of community spirit and active participation in community service.
These principles take centre stage in events like jamborees where scouts from diverse backgrounds converge to engage in outdoor activities, team-building exercises, and cultural exchanges. This was vividly demonstrated in the recently concluded 5th Brunei Darussalam National Jamboree organised by the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association (PPNBD) at Bukit Bendera in Tutong District, marking a resounding success.
Drawing together a diverse gathering of almost 900 participants from fellow ASEAN countries, the event showcased 384 local and 510 international participants.
Among the international participants, 288 scouts hailed from Indonesia, 209 from Malaysia, and Singapore and Thailand contributed 10 and five scout members, respectively.
Expressing gratitude for the jamboree’s success, President of PPNBD Dato Paduka Haji Ar Idris bin Haji Abas, highlighted its accomplishment in nurturing values of teamwork and resilience among the scout members.
Meanwhile, Chief Commissioner of PPNBD Haji Awang Badar bin Haji Awang Ali, shared that this year’s jamboree witnessed the highest foreign participation, surpassing the initial estimate of 200 members.
During the jamboree, attendees immersed themselves in a plethora of activities aligned with scouting’s fundamental themes, encompassing scouting skills, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), cultural and spiritual activities as well as visits to intriguing locations.
SULTAN’S SCOUT AWARD
The Sultan’s Scout Award, is the highest honour in the Venture Scout section for individuals aged 16 to 18, and it requires its recipients to fulfil a number of criteria namely completing the Venture Scout Leadership Course, First Aid Course, and engaging in over 48 hours of community service.
Among the recipients is Nur Syahmina Aqilah, a 16-year-old resident of Kampong Batang Tuau in Temburong District, who joined the scouting movement at the age of 10. An exemplar of dedication and leadership, Nur Syahmina actively participates in various scout activities, programmes, and courses, demonstrating courage and a positive mindset.
She shared in an interview of the importance of an open mind and views the Sultan’s Scout Award as a motivational tool.
Supported by her mother, Nur Syahmina achieved milestones like the Lencana Maju in 2020 and the Lencana Anugerah Pengakap Remaja in 2023.
Ultimately, she and her siblings have embraced scout activities, aiming to perpetuate the legacy left by their late grandmother, who was also a member of the scouting movement. Nur Syahmina’s advice to fellow youth, “Keep dreaming big and put in sincere effort – your goals are within reach.”
BADEN POWELL AWARD
The Baden Powell Award, the pinnacle of achievement for Rover Scouts, requires recipients to earn four badges within the Rover Scouts Scheme, including the National Badge which puts emphasis on the national philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB).
Aimed at youth aged 18 to 26, the Rover Scout section marks a transition from Venture Scout and holds leadership potential.
Mohd Nur Rahimi Afiq Hasyir, a recipient, joined as a scout member in 2014 at age 13. As a Baden Powell Award recipient, Mohd Nur Rahimi Afiq Hasyir dedicated himself to leadership development, community service, accomplishments in scouting, and comprehensive self-improvement.
He shared that the Baden Powell Award is a tribute to individuals showcasing not just commitment but a deep dedication to scouting principles, coupled with exceptional leadership. Beyond accolades, he added, the award cherishes the unique achievements and heartfelt contributions each recipient brings, be it in community activities, scouting events, or personal growth.
Mohd Nur Rahimi has left an indelible mark by representing Brunei in international scouting events across Indonesia, South Korea and Hong Kong. His achievements stand testament to nine years of unwavering commitment, unyielding determination, and dedicated service to scouting.
As he charts his future course, Mohd Nur Rahimi envisions prioritising ongoing self-development and creating avenues for the growth and societal contribution of emerging young leaders.
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES
Muhammad Shamil bin Muhammad Sabri, the Johor scouts leader, recounted his enthralling experiences during the 5th Brunei Darussalam National Jamboree.
From the initial journey from Kuala Lumpur to braving a challenging first night in heavy rain, Shamil’s resilience and determination remained intact, fostering a collective spirit among the participants to revel in the natural beauty of the campsite and forge connections with fellow scouts from diverse countries.
The journey provided a unique cultural immersion, exploring traditional games, camp setup, and savouring local culinary delights, he added.
Shamil highlighted how these experiences served as a gateway to broaden knowledge and understanding, unveiling the unique and exquisite aspects of Brunei Darussalam in comparison to other nations.
Reflecting on his participation with enthusiasm, Shamil expressed the joy of joining the National Jamboree with nearly 30 dedicated Scout members from Johor. The event not only provided a platform for camaraderie and adventure but also acted as a catalyst for cultural exchange and mutual learning among the scouts. – Rokiah Mahmud
