A representative from Matang Wildlife Centre briefs participants on safety.
KUCHING: A total of 244 students from 19 secondary schools in Kuching and Miri divisions attended the first ever World Scout Environment Programme (WSEP) and Messenger of Peace (MOP) at the Matang Wild Life Centre here from April 10 to 12.
It was organised by Sarawak Scout Academy and Federal Scout Sarawak in collaboration with Sarawak Forestry Corporation, held for the first time ever in the country.
According to information given by Sarawak scout assistant commissioner-general (corporate communication) Awangku Hishamuddin, the schools involved were Kolej Abdillah Kuching, Kolej Tun Datu Patinggi Hj Bujang Miri, MRSM Kuching, SMKA Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce, SMK Agama Miri, SMK St Thomas Kuching, SMK St Columbus Miri, SMK Tun Abang Haji Openg, SMK Tun Abdul Rahman, SMK Matang Hilir, SMK Petra Jaya, SMK Semerah Padi, SMK Bako, SMK Batu Lintang, SMK Green Road, SMK Batu Kawah, SMK Jalan Arang, SMK Penrissen, and SMK Siburan.
State scout commissioner-general Sudaryo Osman who closed the programme said the commitment shown by participants was a reflection of a responsible new generation.
He said as Messenger of Peace members, the state scouts would work with the state government in protecting and taking care of the environment and forests.
The WESP and MOP were held based on training modules set and approved by World Scout Organisation and Federal Scout Malaysia.
Through the programme, students had the chance to learn more and appreciate the beauty of nature and the need to take care of it.
Participants also had the opportunity to learn more about their roles in sustaining the natural environment through the WSEP and MOP platforms.
Izzat Aizuddin Abd Rahman from SMK Tun Abang Haji Openg was meanwhile named as the best boy scout while Nur Siti Aisyah Mustapha Yusuf from SMK Tun Abdul Rahman was the best girl scout.
All participants were given WSEP and MOP badges as well as a certificate of participation each.