Sarawak scout delegation joins 4th International Friendship Fiesta in Singapore

KUCHING (July 24): The Sarawak Scout commissioner delegation led by Deputy Chief Scout Commissioner John Lim Boon Beng last weekend participated in the 4th International Friendship Fiesta in Singapore.

In a press statement, Sarawak Scouts Council executive secretary Zasran Abdullah said the festival, which was organised by the Singapore Scout Association in collaboration with the Singapore Scout Collectors Club, was held at their Scout Headquarters building on July 20.

Besides Lim, the Sarawak delegation included five Scout Commissioners, namely Iu Cho Heng, Fong Voon Chon, Kho Swee Aik and Jeremy Sim, he added.

The fiesta was declared opened by Chief Scout Commissioner of Singapore Desmond Chong.

“This event, aimed at fostering camaraderie and strengthening ties between the scouts of Singapore in particular and Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand in general, proved to be a resounding success.”

Zasran said the Singapore Scout Friendship Fiesta brought together scouts from the neighbouring regions in a one-day celebration filled with various activities, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges.

“The Sarawak contingent showcased their unique traditions and experiences, while also learning from their Singaporean counterparts. This fiesta is not just about fun and games; it’s about building lifelong friendships and learning from one another.

“The bonds created there will strengthen the scouting communities across the regions and enhance cultural exchanges,” he stressed.

The event was attended by some seven hundred scouts drawn from Singapore and surrounding Asean countries.

Among the invited guests was the Chief Scout of Malaysia Major General (Rtd) Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Zin Bidin.

The scouts had the opportunity to browse over 10 exhibition stalls displaying scout badges, memorabilia and collectibles including some very rare items and collection of old uniforms.

“For newbies, this was an opportune time to learn from the very friendly collectors on the history of these ‘scouting antiques’ and to indulge in an age-old Scouting tradition of badge swapping,” said Zasran.

The Singapore Scout Collectors Club, which started 12 years ago as a club for local collectors to exchange knowledge and interest on scouting badges, memorabilia and collectibles, has achieved international recognition and earned respectability for its collections and expertise in certain of the ‘scouting antiques’.

Lim expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the importance of such gatherings in promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.

Participants engaged in team-building exercises, talks, and cultural performances that highlighted the rich heritage of the nations involved.

The fiesta provided a platform for scouts to share their experiences, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration.

The Indonesian Pramukas also showcased their parts which further made the friendship fiesta even more memorable and widespread across the regions.

Both Sarawak and Singapore scouts exchanged mementos and pledged to continue their friendship and cooperation in future scouting endeavours.

The success of the Singapore Scout Friendship Fiesta has set the feasible stage for future collaborative events, further solidifying the ties between the scouting communities.

As the scouts return to their respective homes, they carry with them not only memories of a memorable event but also a renewed sense of solidarity and friendship.

The Sarawak Scouts’ participation in this fiesta marks a significant step in enhancing the bond between Sarawak and Singapore, promising a future of continued partnership and shared adventures.