On 24th February 2023, the 10th KL boys took part in a 3D2N jamboree, and it was the first in many years! The Malaysia Jamboree @ Selangor (MYJam 2023) was a private jamboree organised by a team of Scout Leaders from both local and foreign scout groups based in Malaysia. The idea of such collaboration first sparked through a conversation between an Old Scout and a Scout Leader from 10th KL, together with a Scout Leader from 2nd KL (British Scouting Overseas – BSO). Right then they sensed that it would be a great occasion for scouts of different groups and nationalities to enjoy scouting together and celebrate diversity in one another’s culture, so they went on to invite other Scout Leaders onboard the organising committee. The inaugural jamboree saw the participation of 10th KL Air Scout Group, 1st KL & 2nd KL Scout Group (BSO), Troop 818 (Boy Scouts of America – BSA), 1st Selangor & 2nd Selangor Scout Group (BSO), Hibiscus Explorers (BSO), and 48th Bukit Bintang Scout Group. There were approximately 100 scouts, 15 Scout Leaders, and some parent helpers, all hyped and well geared up for the event around 1200 hrs on Day 1.

There were 11 of us from the Senior Scout Troop and we arrived at the jamboree venue – Commonwealth Eco Forest Park a little earlier to help with logistics and setting up a big canopy. The campsite was conspicuously clean with acres of space, but without much shade over our tent plots. As time went by, other troops arrived and we all set up our base at the designated territory, each group brought their own tents of different colours, shapes and sizes. It was a scorching hot day through the afternoon but eventually dark clouds came by. At around 1700 hrs, bad luck struck us as rain started pouring down like cats and dogs. It ruined the schedule as it prevented us from having the Opening Ceremony. The downpour lasted for 2 hours and we stayed in the huts that were available in our respective base. Some of the scouts were running around playing under the rain, as we used the time to interact with some of the other troops. A scout from Troop 818 approached us with friendliness and affability, we shared with each other about our troops and experience in camps. Right when the rain had stopped, the kitchen team informed everyone that it’s dinner time. My friends mocked me for bringing a teaspoon for the camp, especially my scouter.

The Camp Chief welcomed everyone with a high-spirited speech when the Campfire programme began around 2000 hrs. We were enjoying the cool weather, as we sat around the bonfire and listened to a Leader reading out Baden-Powell’s “Last Letter to Scouts” in conjunction with Founder’s Day, which was just a few days ago. The campfire was then led by American and Malaysian Scouts, and we the 10th KL boys kickstarted the hype by presenting our Group Song in high spirit, followed by the first 6 songs that we always sing in our campfire. Troop 818 then took over with a number of sketches and jokes, they were really creative and all the scouts were enjoying the great atmosphere. It ended at about 2100 hrs when everyone was told to get some rest in preparation for more programmes the next day. However, we stayed up a bit longer, chatting and joking about stories in school.

The next day was met with a beautiful sunrise, scouts were divided into our respective patrols : Orang Utan, Civet, Tapir, Tiger, Langur, Hornbill, Leopard, Sunbear, Kingfisher and Siamang. It was a great opportunity for the Patrol Leaders to find their members during breakfast and get to know them more. Each patrol was given a folder which consisted of a schedule and a set of 50 challenges to do during free flow activities. 

There were 5 stations in total. First Aid and Simulation was my patrol’s first. We were taught skills and technique in basic first aid, then put into simulation on applying bandages and building a stretcher. It was a great experience as these skills could help us in case of any emergencies in the future. Knife Safety and Woodcarving was our second station, and the thought of using imagination and creativity to carve into any shape we want really got us excited. We were briefed on the safety precautions when handling the carving tools, followed by the 4 ways to carve on a wood block. Our task was to carve the shape of a fox. For the Science station, we were given exposure on how simple science is able to create amazing experiments. For example, mentos in cola, baking soda and vinegar, and building a rocket. It was extremely fun as all the patrols competed to see whose rocket could fly the furthest. Knots and Knot Games was the next station, where we were taught a bunch of knots that are useful in our daily lives and could actually save lives. I am glad that I was able to refresh my memory on knots again.

While some patrols had breaks in between the stations, we utilised the time to participate in free flow activities, including some fun challenges and painting a big mural that commemorates the jamboree. These activities were really helpful and important in building chemistry among patrol members since all the scouts from different groups were mixed into new patrols right from the beginning. The challenges had different amounts of points and the patrols who accumulated the most points would win a prize so everyone was putting in a good fight for the glory!

After dinner, it was time for the second campfire. The 10th KL boys presented our Maori Haka and the spirit was as strong as the bonfire. The scouts from BSO then took over with first a beautiful song that got everyone singing along – Dancing Queen, followed by a number of interactive campfire songs. All the scouts were having lots of fun, clapping, singing and dancing along. It was a memorable experience as we got to know more about different  troops’ culture and what they do during camps. The campfire then ended at about 2130 hrs, and the scouts went on to enjoy the marshmallows and supper that were prepared.

The final day started off with some free time for all patrols to complete their challenges, trying to beat each other on the scoresheet as we pushed forward for the champion’s title. We were then gathered and taught on Map Reading and Navigation at the last station of this jamboree. Our skills in reading bearings on the compass were put into use, while all patrols competed for the Scavenger Hunt. Clues were hidden around the campsite area and we must collect them all to obtain the final answer. Right after the main activities were concluded, everyone had lunch and then started dismantling the tents at their respective base. The Scout Leaders emphasised on cleanliness particularly. Thankfully this time there was no rain so the Closing Ceremony could be done, where all the scouts changed into full uniform and assembled together with their troop flag. The Camp Chief started with an appreciation for every scout and leader for being cooperative throughout the jamboree, followed by a prize giving session. The outstanding participants were recognised for their leadership and commendable behaviour throughout the event. For the climax, the patrol that won in the 50 challenges was Leopard patrol, with a strong accumulation of 130 points. All members of the champion patrol were awarded with special scarves. Nevertheless, all the Patrol Leaders and Seconds were given a scarf too, and each member also received a badge for their active participation. As it was all set and done, the jamboree was concluded with a group photo and everyone was all smiles.

To sum up the jamboree experience in one word for me, it will be astounding. I was impressed with how much there was to learn and how well the Scout Leaders taught us with such calm fashion. We made friends along the way and teamwork was key in every challenge we faced. Overall, it was one of the most memorable and fun scouting experiences that I have ever got, and there will be no doubt in my mind to go again. (real)

–
Justin Nicholas
Senior Scout Troop Historian
Court Of Honour 2023