PADAWAN: The open field of SK St Augustine in Mambong was transformed into a vibrant campsite over the weekend as 108 Cub Scouts from eight primary schools across Padawan took part in a three-day training camp aimed at earning their prestigious Keris proficiency badges.
The Padawan District Scouters Council organised the event, which ran from July 11-13, blending outdoor adventure with structured, skill-based assessments.
Far from a typical recreational outing, the camp served as a vital milestone in the scouting journey, providing young scouts with the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, discipline, and teamwork in a real camping environment.
“This camp is designed to give scouts a chance to apply what they’ve learned.
“The Keris badge is not simply awarded; it is earned through performance, discipline and practical testing,” said camp chief, Danggat Chabo.
Throughout the camp, scouts engaged in a diverse range of activities designed to refine their core scouting skills, including tent living, knot tying, rope climbing, campfire cooking, signalling, cultural performances, and maintaining overall campsite standards, emphasising teamwork, respect, and personal responsibility.
In addition to technical skills, the camp aimed to instil a lasting appreciation for nature and the principles of sustainable outdoor living.
Scouts were assessed not only on their scouting abilities but also on how well they upheld cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental responsibility throughout the camp.
Assessment was conducted by trained scouters, with the results determining whether each scout qualified for the Keris badge, one of the most respected accolades in Malaysian scouting.
While final evaluations are still underway, many participants expressed confidence in their performance.
The Padawan District Scouters Council intends to organise similar programmes in the future, given the overwhelmingly positive feedback from scouts, parents, and leaders.
The camp concluded with a flag-lowering ceremony officiated by Padawan District Scout Commissioner, Janos Nyirim, marking the end of an inspiring and formative experience for the next generation of Sarawak scouts.
