KUCHING: Seventy-eight scouts from two schools completed a three-day, two-night camping activity held at Ma’asa Eco-Tourism and Event Centre, Borneo Heights over the weekend.
Made up of primary school pupils and secondary school students from SK Wira Jaya and SMK Kota Samarahan respectively, they were accompanied by teachers, who are scout leaders, from several schools in the Kota Samarahan area.
Sarawak Deputy I Scout Chief MacDonald Segie said the camp served as a refresher for teachers and an upgrading for the students.
He said during the camp, they went for jungle trekking, knotting, lashing, rope climbing, basic drills, jungle survival and cooking.
“The benefits of scouting are providing youths with an opportunity to try new things, provide service to others, build self-confidence and reinforce ethical standards.
“As youths, scouts are taught to live by a code of conduct exemplified in the 12 points of the Scout Law, and they continue to live by these laws in adulthood,” said MacDonald.
He added that scouting was all about building confidence, self-esteem, learning important life skills and leadership skills, team building, outdoor adventure, education and fun.
“Scouts learn how to make good choices and to take responsibility for their actions so that they are prepared for their adult life as independent persons.
“More importantly by integrating itself into the community, scouting can contribute to the wider range of activities and organisations provided in it,” he added.
Samarahan District Scout Commissioner Nelyson Kinot meanwhile said the camp was full of fun and learning for the scouts as they experienced outdoor adventure away from home.
Nelyson said during the camp, they all spent their days being physically active.
“They all earned advancement and experience success. Hidden within the adventure lies the true benefits of the scouting experience,” said Nelyson, adding that the participants utilised the natural surroundings and scouting methods to contribute significantly to their physical, mental, spiritual and social growth.
