Scouts from across Asia-Pacific gather in Penang for Malaysian Jamboree

More than 7,000 Scouts, volunteers, and service team members from Malaysia and several countries took part in the seven-day Jamboree. 

There was plenty to do at the 15th Malaysian Scout Jamboree (MYJAM15): hike, build, perform, explore, compete, and make friends.

For young people, the week offered opportunities to develop practical skills while taking on challenges with others. The programme included outdoor adventures, life skills activities, leadership, and teamwork programmes, as well as Merdeka Hike and Jamboree Fun Walk. These activities gave Scouts the opportunity to test their resilience, work as a team, and take on responsibilities beyond their usual routines. 

The Jamboree brought together Scouts from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Maldives, Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, Bangladesh, Republic of China, Thailand, Australia, Singapore, Brunei, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. 

Through cultural exchange and shared activities, participants had opportunities to learn about different traditions and experiences while building friendships with Scouts from across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

Penang itself became part of the learning experience. Scouts took part in heritage activities and the Georgetown Heritage Trail Hunt which gave participants a chance to explore the state beyond the Jamboree site and learn more about its history, culture and landmarks. 

National Chief Scout Major General Datuk Wira Professor Dr. Mohd Zin Bidin, who also chairs the Asia-Pacific Region Scout Committee, said MYJAM15 was significant in bringing together a new generation of Scouts at a milestone moment for Malaysian Scouting.

“This event gives young Malaysians and international scouts an opportunity to experience the state’s rich heritage, make friends and strengthen their understanding of the values of Scouting,” Zin Bidin said.

MYJAM15 marked 60 years since Malaysia hosted its first national Scout Jamboree in Teluk Bahang, Penang, in 1966. The return to Penang connected the current generation of Scouts with an important chapter in the history of Malaysian Scouting.

Also present in the event is Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim who highlighted Scouting as a platform for developing character, discipline, leadership and a commitment to serving society. 

“MYJAM15 demonstrates that Scouting remained a powerful platform for bringing young people together, regardless of borders, cultures or backgrounds,” Anwar said.

Sixty years after Malaysia’s first national Scout Jamboree was held in Penang, MYJAM15 gave a new generation of Scouts an experience of its own to take forward. After seven days of shared activities, new encounters and discovering Penang, participants returned home with memories and connections that extend beyond the Jamboree — carrying with them experiences that can continue to shape their Scouting journey.