Girl guide movements wins royal seal of approval

KUCHING: The 59th Girl Guide Association of Malaysia (GGAM) Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) is a pivotal moment for the association to forge ahead with renewed purpose.

GGAM royal patron Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah expressed pride in the development of the association, saying it is in line with current needs.

“The demands of the world are constantly changing, and in this era of globalisation and the fourth industrial revolution, these changes, which drive innovation and creativity, are occurring at a very rapid pace, especially among the younger generation.

“The Annual General Meeting is a neutral platform for every organisation to discuss and make decisions that will benefit all its members. Use this opportunity to advance the association even further,” she said.

The Queen said this at the opening of the 59th Girl Guide Association of Malaysia (GGAM) Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Borneo Conference Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Saturday (June 29).

The Queen (seated centre) during a photo call with others at Borneo Conference Centre Kuching (BCCK)

Her Majesty (seated, fifth left) watches a traditional performance during the event

Echoing these sentiments, the wife of the Prime Minister who is also GGAM President Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Dr Wan Ismail highlighted GGAM’s enduring relevance in empowering its members.

She redefined leadership as galvanising spirit and delivering impact, rather than mere rank and image management, aligning with the values of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS).

“It is my hope that the entire line of newly appointed leadership in this assembly will bring the very best qualities from GGAM in creating a harmonious and prosperous Malaysian society,” she said.

Additionally, GGAM Chief Commissioner Datuk Yeoh Soo Keng expressed gratitude to the Queen and all stakeholders for their unwavering support in elevating GGAM’s stature.

Her Majesty the Queen (second right) viewing traditional fabric crafts during the event.

“In line with the global theme ‘Our World, Our Thriving Future,’ it is perfect in defining our role and place in the world,” she added.

The four-day event, attended by approximately 300 members from across Malaysia, featured enriching cultural exchanges and visits to local landmarks in the city, reinforcing bonds and understanding among participants.

Participants had the opportunity to engage in dialogue sessions and cultural exchanges at the Borneo Cultural Museum and Center For Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs).