KUCHING: The Scouts Association of Malaysia has launched a new community-based scouting initiative in Sarawak, a move aimed at enhancing the reach and inclusivity of scouting activities across the region.
The launched initiative marks a significant shift from the traditional school-based scouting model, embracing a more community-centric approach.
According to the Chief Scout of Malaysia, Major General (Retired) Professor Datuk Mohd Zin Bidin, the initiative was inspired by Kazakhstan’s success, where over 90 percent of scout troops operate under this model.
“Community-based scouting allows us to bring the values and benefits of scouting directly to the heart of our communities, especially those who are no longer under the purview of educational institutions.
“It provides greater flexibility and inclusivity, ensuring that more young people can participate in scouting, regardless of their school or educational background,” he said.
He said this at the initiative launching ceremony held in conjunction with the Scout Gawai Night at the Multi Purpose Hall of Serian Chung Hua Primary School, which was attended by President of Sarawak Scout Council Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom here on Friday (June 14).
Mohd Zin stressed the new initiative is expected to foster stronger community ties, as scout troops will now be formed and managed by local community members.
“This approach is anticipated to increase participation rates, offering young people the opportunity to develop vital skills such as leadership, teamwork, and self-reliance in a supportive and familiar environment,” he added.
As part of the rollout, training sessions for new community troop leaders would be held soon, ensuring that they are well-prepared to mentor and guide the next generation of scouts.
The Scouts Association plans to extend this initiative to other states in Malaysia, with Sarawak serving as the pioneering model for this innovative approach.
Also present were Vice President of the Malaysian Scout Council Datuk Ahmad Shazilly Ismail Bakti, Chairman of the Malaysian Scout Foundation Colonel Jumaat Ibrahim, and Chief Scout Commissioner of Sarawak Captain Zainuddin Tan Sri Hamdan.
