GEORGE TOWN: Teamwork, perseverance and a love for the outdoors – these are what forged boy scout Lim Jun Hong into a King Scout after a gruelling five-year journey of challenges and adventures.
The programme tested everything from survival skills to building a campsite from scratch, camping outdoors for over 20 days, carrying out social service work, and completing a punishing 40km expedition across both the island and the mainland.
“It really taught me that teamwork is essential,” said the 19-year-old SMJK(C) Heng Ee student.
“You can be a leader, but you still need to support each other. During the 40km expedition, we walked from 9am to 11pm. Without friends motivating you, it would have been impossible to finish.”
Beyond endurance, Lim said the journey also taught him time management.
“I had to balance my studies while working toward becoming a King Scout. I volunteered at school events and even during the Penang Bridge Marathon. It was a tough schedule, but I loved it because I enjoy being outdoors.”
Fellow King Scout Haziq Azimi Rahimi, 17, described the training as a crash course for real life.
“Discipline and independence were key, especially when building a campsite from scratch. I had to set up my own space, prepare meals, and stay on top of everything. It takes hard work and commitment,” said the SMJK(C) Jit Sin student.
Lim and Haziq were among 23 recipients of the King Scout certificate in Penang, at the Scouts Association of Malaysia (Penang) award ceremony yesterday.
The event also celebrated engineer Wong Kok Nian, who received the Icon of Outstanding Scouting Proficiency Award 2025 for his long-standing contributions to the movement.
Wong, who joined the Scouts in 1999, said, “Scouting teaches the importance of working together and helping others.
“Now, as Penang Scouts’ chief commissioner for international affairs, I want to collaborate with scouts from other countries, giving our scouts exposure and shaping them into responsible, capable individuals.”
The biennial ceremony, graced by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, also saw 26 stars, 157 medals and 203 certificates awarded.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow praised the recipients for their dedication.
“Your hard work, perseverance and leadership are reflected in these awards. As president of the Penang State Scout Council, I am proud of the progress and resilience of the organisation.
“These efforts cultivate a generation that is intelligent, physically healthy, morally upright and skilled, in line with the state’s aspirations,” he said.
Chow encouraged the 23 King Scouts to continue honing their leadership skills and serving the community.
