SIBU: Over 300 young scouts from local primary and secondary schools celebrated World Scouts Day 2024 at Wisma Pengakap today (Aug 10).
The event was officiated by Sibu District Scouts Council (SDSC) chairman John Tiong Chiong Yii, who hailed scouting as a transformative experience for both youth and adults.
“Scouting offers a unique platform for personal growth, community service, and character development,” Tiong said.
“It instills values like self-confidence, self-reliance, and the Scout Promise and Laws, shaping individuals for a lifetime of positive impact.”
He said that the skills and values acquired through scouting are invaluable assets that extend far beyond one’s youth, contributing to success in all life endeavours.
Tiong paid tribute to the founder of scouting, Sir Robert Baden-Powell, a British army officer who pioneered the movement in 1907.
“Baden-Powell gathered a diverse group of boys on Brownsea Island for the first scout camp,” he added.
“Inspired by their enthusiasm for outdoor activities and challenges, he dedicated his life to developing scouting worldwide. He established the World Scout Jamboree and the World Scout Organisation, and authored numerous books for scouts and cubs. In recognition of his contributions, he was named Chief Scout of the World in 1920, while his wife became the World Chief Guide in 1930.”
The celebration was enlivened by a performance from the SMK Sacred Heart Bagpipe band.
Also present were Sibu District Scout Commissioner Dayang Hairuniza Hasbollah and organising chairman Yong Woo Hu.
