Ahmad Fuzi (middle) giving out awards at the Scouts Association of Malaysia Penang’s 2022 Awards Ceremony.
OVER a century after its establishment in Penang, the Scouts movement still plays an instrumental role in shaping disciplined, visionary and accountable individuals.
Its programmes and values were essential in preparing one to face any eventualities that life or society might throw at them, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
He said this at the Scouts Association of Malaysia Penang’s 2022 Awards Ceremony for Stars, Medals and King’s Scout certificates.
“The vision and mission of the movement, especially in tackling issues involving youth, is in line with the Penang 2030 vision of being a smart, green and family-focused state.
“It is my hope that all Scouts who are here today will harness all the knowledge and skills they have learned to be the leaders of tomorrow,” added Chow, who is also governor of the Penang Scouts Council.
The ceremony, held at The Top Penang in Komtar last Sunday, saw a total of 335 Scouts receiving 18 different awards.
This included 27 who received the King’s Scout certificate, which is the highest award in the junior segment and recognises exemplary performance.
Ahmad Fuzi pinning a medal on one of the recipients.
All recipients received their awards from the Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, who is also patron of the Scouts Association of Malaysia.
National Scouts chief commissioner Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Zin Bidin said the association was currently focused on embracing digitalisation and sustainable development goals.
They also intend to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) learning and expand efforts in community-based scouting, among other immediate objectives.
“The rich history and heritage of scouting in Penang is worth celebrating as it can be an inspiration for the development of human capital in Malaysia,” Prof Mohd Zin added.
Penang was the first state in Malaysia to establish the Scouts movement, back in 1908. In 1966, it became the first state to host a jamboree.
Chow said the state government was receptive to the association’s wish to build a proper campsite in Penang so scouting activities could be done in a more orderly fashion.
“We welcome any proposals and will continue to offer support to ensure scouts in the state have access to the appropriate facilities,” he added.
Also present at the ceremony were state youth and sports committee chairman Soon Lip Chee and Penang Scouts chief commissioner Zulkafli Kamaruddin.
