“If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet’’
– American writer Rachel Wolchin.
By the time this article is published, I will be in Baram for a work trip. It’s my first time going there and I am really excited.
When I told my sister about the trip, the first thing she asked was, “Are you sure you want to go?” A colleague who saw my name assigned to the Baram trip told me, “I don’t think I could survive without internet.”
Their comments did not dampen my enthusiasm. Instead they fuelled my determination to explore the unexplored and uncover the mysteries of a place unknown to me.
I consider myself adventurous. I seek to embrace adventures and discover what lies beyond the horizon.
I aim to collect stories and experiences, not just possessions because life is meant to be lived fully, tasted and felt in its entirety. I believe that exploring the corners of my beloved state will allow me to do just that.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I had the opportunity to follow the State Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA Sarawak) personnel as they delivered 452 doses of Pfizer vaccine for children in the interiors of Miri for the National Immunisation Programme for Children (PICKids).
The BOMBA Sarawak air unit facilitated the vaccine delivery to nine locations, namely, Long Lellang, Long Banga, Long Moh, Long Jekitan, Long Miri, Long Jegan, Ulu Teru, Long Terus, and Long Panai.
It was an unforgettable experience. I witnessed firsthand how the brave men and women of BOMBA Sarawak and the Ministry of Health (MoH) carried out a national service in the fight against COVID-19.
In a world often characterised by routine and predictability, the allure of adventure has a magnetic pull that tugs at the hearts of many, including myself.
The spirit of exploration, the thirst for the unknown, and the courage to step outside one’s comfort zone define the essence of being adventurous.
In a life filled with responsibilities, deadlines and obligations, the importance of embracing adventure cannot be overstated. It is not just a way to escape from the mundane; it is a transformative journey that enriches our lives in profound ways.
Adventure is a quest for self-discovery. It challenges our limits, tests our bravery and pushes us beyond what we thought possible.
When we venture into the unknown, we unearth hidden facts of our personalities and talents. We learn how resilient we are, how creative we can be in the face of challenges, and how adaptable our minds truly are.
This is something I experienced during a trip to Mulu with BOMBA Sarawak last year. My former colleague and I were taken on a surprise caving adventure in Racer Cave at Gunung Mulu National Park, which physically and mentally challenged us.
We were unprepared, but with guidance and support from BOMBA Sarawak’s director Datuk Khirudin Drahman and his capable Mountain and Cave Search and Rescue (MOCSAR) team, we succeeded.
Admittedly, given my slipped-disc condition, I’m now somewhat hesitant about such adventures. Still, I’m grateful for that experience.
Life is unpredictable and adventures teach us to embrace uncertainty. They thrust unexpected situations upon us, forcing us to think on our feet and adapt quickly.
Each obstacle and fear conquered adds a layer of resilience to our character. These experiences prepare us to face the uncertainties of life with a composed mind and a courageous heart.
What I love most about venturing into new territories whether geographical or experiential, it exposes us to diverse cultures, ideas and people.
This broadens our perspectives, fostering tolerance, understanding, and acceptance. The world becomes a mosaic of varied customs and traditions that teach us to embrace the beauty of differences.
In essence, being adventurous is not just a luxury but it is a fundamental aspect of the human spirit. It is about embracing life with all its unpredictability, challenges and joys.
It is a mindset that encourages us to live fully, to embrace the unknown with open arms, and to savour every moment.
I am thankful that my job has allowed me to further nurture my adventurous spirit, and I look forward to sharing my Baram experience in my next column.
