Some 20 youth participated in a one-day basic kayaking skills course at the Youth Centre swimming pool recently, held in conjunction with the 19th National Youth Day celebration.
The course, organised by the Youth and Sports Department of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, through its Brunei-Muara District branch, aimed to equip participants with essential kayaking and canoeing skills, including proper paddling techniques and safety measures.
The initiative aligned with a titah delivered by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, who said during the 12th National Youth Day celebration in 2017 that the quality of youth is measured not only by their contributions but also by their attitudes. His Majesty highlighted that youth with a proactive attitude are often highly active and creative.
Reflecting this message, the course provided a platform for youth to advance themselves, whether for leisure or high-performance sports.
Traditionally, kayaking activities have taken place on the Brunei River or Damuan River.
However, prioritising safety, the course was conducted at a swimming pool. Future kayaking expeditions may return to the Brunei River, reminiscent of the 1990s and early 2000s, should safety conditions permit. – Fadley Faisal
