KINARUT: Outward Bound Sabah (OBS), Malaysia’s second outdoor experiential learning centre after Lumut, marked its 40th anniversary with a vibrant Open Day at its scenic coastal campus in Kinarut, recently.
The event drew over 400 visitors from across Sabah and even Kuching, bringing energy and cheer to the milestone event.
The highlight was a non-competitive Fun Run, with 200 participants running along the scenic ridge and beach of OBS. It was officiated by Mohd Adnan Abdullah, Assistant District Officer of Papar.
Present were OBS Chairman Dato’ Seri Tengku Dr Zainal Adlin and committee members Datuk Dr Awang Zaini Hj. Suntim, Datuk Abd Ghani Rashid, Datuk Gabriel William and Moilen Chai.
The occasion offered locals and visitors a chance to experience the spirit of OBS through a variety of adventure-based activities that tested both endurance and teamwork.
Attendees participated in flying fox, rock wall climbing, tree climbing, sailing, orienteering, and the panoramic view trail. Additional recreational activities included 7-a-side football, horse riding, and ATV rides, all set against the backdrop of OBS’s 100-acre campus, which features direct access to the South China Sea, rivers, and tropical rainforest, an ideal setting for immersive outdoor education.
Founded in 1985 and modeled after the original Outward Bound School in England, OBS Kinarut has trained approximately 80,000 participants over four decades and nurtured more than 70 local youths into skilled instructors.
A symbolic 40-year-old kayak monument was unveiled during the event, representing OBS’s enduring journey, commitment and hopes for the future.
The celebration also featured lively performances, including, Dance Fitness by Mazreca Fitness Studio, Martial Arts by Sabah Karate Association and MTH Taekwondo Academy, Wai Kru demonstration by Tambuakar Muaythai Club, support teams included volunteers from University College Sabah Foundation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Montfort Youth Training Centre, and former staff and alumni.
The Strongman Community played a vital role in clearing the beach trail for the Fun Run.
OBS extended its gratitude to sponsors of the lucky draw, BK Construction and Saffa Enterprise, as well as vendors and exhibitors such as U Mobile, Papar Tourism Association, Papar Health Department (health screening) and KPDNKK for their Jualan Rahmah Madani initiative.
“We don’t just teach, we transform perspectives. Our 40th anniversary is a tribute to Sabah’s spirit of resilience and the power of nature to unlock human potential,” said Tengku Adlin.
The event was a resounding success, offering the Papar community and visitors a deeper understanding of OBS’s mission and its role in shaping character, leadership, and personal growth through outdoor education.