Penang hosted the inaugural Malaysian Scout Jamboree at Kem Jubli, Teluk Bahang in 1966, which brought together about 2,500 scouts from across the country.
GEORGE TOWN: More than 5,400 participants, including 468 international scouts from 11 countries, are expected to converge at Bandar Cassia in Batu Kawan near here for the 15th Malaysian Scout Jamboree from Aug 29 to Sept 4, marking the event’s return to Penang 60 years after the state hosted the inaugural national jamboree.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the opening ceremony at 3pm on Aug 29.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Penang’s selection as host reflects confidence in the state’s ability to organise large-scale events and its continued commitment to youth development.
He said the jamboree holds special significance as Penang hosted the inaugural Malaysian Scout Jamboree at Kem Jubli, Teluk Bahang in 1966, which brought together about 2,500 scouts from across the country.
“The 15th Malaysian Scout Jamboree is an important platform for non-formal education in shaping a future generation that is resilient, disciplined and equipped with leadership qualities in line with the Penang2030 vision.”
Chow called on government agencies, the private sector, volunteers and local communities to work together to ensure the event is organised smoothly, safely and achieves its objectives.
He also invited the public to visit the Scout Carnival at Bandar Cassia, which will feature interactive activities as well as family-friendly exhibitions throughout the jamboree.
He shared that he had briefly been a Tenderfoot Scout, giving him a personal connection to the scouting movement.
Held under the theme “Tracing Heritage, Building the Future” and the sub-theme “60 Years Uniting the Spirit of Scouting”, the jamboree is expected to attract international participants from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Vietnam, South Korea, the Maldives, Thailand, Bangladesh and Singapore.
Throughout the seven-day jamboree, participants will take part in programmes focusing on leadership, science, technology, engineering and mathematics, innovation and sustainability.
Activities include the Scout Skill Challenge, survival activities, exhibitions by government agencies, International Cultural Night, environmental programmes, and the annual Merdeka Hike, which is expected to be recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records for being organised continuously for 20 years.
State scout commissioner Datuk Zulkafli Kamaruddin noted that preparations for the jamboree are progressing according to schedule, with committees coordinating infrastructure, campsites, security, healthcare, logistics, internal transport and programme management with various government agencies.
“We are confident that, with this spirit of cooperation, the 15th Malaysian Scout Jamboree will be held smoothly and safely, leaving a significant impact on all participants.”
He also welcomed sponsorships in the form of financial contributions, services, logistics, equipment and professional expertise, describing such support as an investment in developing future leaders.
The jamboree is supported by several corporate sponsors, including Diamond Sponsors Stark Development Sdn Bhd and Pekat Group Bhd, as well as Gold Sponsors Powertage Sdn Bhd, i-Nano Technology (M) Sdn Bhd, Bio Fresh Group Sdn Bhd, Guanlite Sdn Bhd and Kanpo Fitness Sdn Bhd.
Also present at the recent press conference were state Youth, Sports and Health exco Gooi Zi Sen, national chief scout commissioner Dr Mohammed Mukhyuddin Sarwani and deputy state scout commissioner Datuk Henry Heng.