History of Scouting in Singapore
1910's
1910
The Boy Scouts Movement (Scouting in Singapore) was inaugurated on July 2. Mr. Frank Cooper Sands, a warranted Scoutmaster from the United Kingdom, formed the First Sands Troop with 30 boys, under the sponsorship of the YMCA,whose building also served as the Scout Headquarters
1915
Scouts rendered service to the Government and the people during the Sepoy Mutiny by taking over from the Army and Police Force duties of telephone operators, despatch riders and clerks etc.
1916
Younger boys were brought into the Movement as Wolf Cubs. The Scout Headquarters moved to Zetland House at Anson Road.
1919
The Fourth Troop formed at St.Joseph’s Institution.
The Fifth Troop for English-speaking Malay boys was organised.
The 1st Malay-speaking Scout Troop was formed.
1920's
1920
Scouting from Singapore spread to the mainland of the Malay Peninsula and Frank Cooper Sands assumed the post of Chief Commissioner of the Scout Branch Association, Comprising of the British Crown Colony of the Straits Settlements (Singapore, Penang and Malacca) and the Federated Malay States. The Scout Headquarters moved to a building vacated by the General Post Office at Clifford Pier.
Mr. Benjamin Purdy appointed District Commissioner.
1922
HRH The Prince of Wales (Edward VIII) visited Singapore and inspected a Scout Rally.
Recognizing the extensive role of Scouting in the lives of young people, the schools in Singapore adopted the Scout Programme as an extra-circular activity resulting in the formation of school-sponsored troops registered. The first School Troop called the Second Troop formed at Raffles Institution as 2nd Raffles Institution, the 3rd at Anglo-Chinese School and the 4th at St Joseph Institution in numerical order of formation chronologically after the 1st Sand’s Troop an open troop.
1923
750 Scouts camped together – the biggest Scout event since Scouting was started in Singapore.
1927
Senior Scouts were established as Rover Scouts
1928
Mr. Alex Cullen appointed District Commissioner.
1930's
1932
The Association was given loan of a Camp-site off Wing Loong Road. Mr Ng Seng Choy loaned his land for camping. That piece of land was situated at Wing Leong Road, Changi, and was named Purdy Camp. Many Scouting veterans remembered their camping days at this very memorable site. The loan continued for 21 years.
1933
The Scout Camp in Wing Loong Road was officially opened by Mr. F.C. Sands, the Chief Commissioner for Malaya and Singapore, and named “Purdy Camp” in honour of Mr. Benjamin Purdy.
1934
Lord Baden Powell of Gilwell, founder of the Boy Scouts Movement, visited Singapore. A mammoth rally was held in his honour at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
1938
Sea Scouting was introduced with the formation of the First Trafalgar Sea Scout Troop. Their base was on the ‘SS Lumut’ moored in the Telok Ayer Basin.
1940's
1941
The effects of World War 2 were being felt in Singapore and Scouts took up positions of responsibilities by qualifying as Air Raid Wardens, Fire watchers, First Aid Men and Police Officers, serving bravely in their respective units until disbanded with the fall of Singapore to the occupational forces of the Japanese Army.
1942
Under fear of Japanese Military action, Scouts clandestinely met to keep the Scout Movement alive.
1945
Senior Scouts had opportunities to work for the King’s Scout Badge as their highest award.
1946
Mr. N.F.G. Scharenguivel, the first local-born District Commissioner, revived Scouting.
Arrangements were carried out for Singapore to gain Association status with the UK Scout Association.
1947
The first Chinese-speaking Scout Troop was formed at the Chinese High School.
1950's
1950
Singapore was accorded Branch status by the Imperial Scout Headquarters in London.
Reverend R.K. Adams became the first Chief Commissioner.
Singapore was divided into five Scout Districts: North, South, East, West and Central, each with a District Commissioner.
The Headquarters was established in the old Chapel of St Andrew’s School in Armenian Street.
1951
The Districts were re-grouped into three; North, East and South-western, for greater efficiency.
1952
The Association’s contingent participated in the 2nd Pan-Pacific Jamboree in Sydney, Australia. It was the first local Scout contingent to go overseas.
The first “Job Week” was launched to raised funds to send its first contingent to Australia to participate in the 2nd Pan-Pacific Jamboree
1953
A 27-acre plot of land was purchased in Jurong for the Association’s much needed camp-site through a fund raising efforts. It was situated at the old Boon Lay Road. (currently where Chartered Industries is located) The camp-site was officially opened in Oct 1954 by Lord Rowallan, the Chief Scout of the commonwealth, and named, “Jurong Park”.
The Singapore Training Team was formed.
Mr. R.E. Ince took over the post of Chief Commissioner.
1954
An impressive rally was held at the St. Andrew’s School ground in Woodsville, was held in honour of Lord Rowallan, and was attended by well over 3,000 members.
The Headquarters took over the St Andrew’s School building when it moved to another site.
1956
The first All-Singapore Patrol Camp was held.
The Annual Cub Field Day was introduced.
1957
Mr. L.A. Woodford, the first local was appointed the Chief Commissioner.
Another re-organisation of Districts resulted in the addition of the Pasir Panjang District, making a total of four Districts.
Scout Groups sponsored by the UK Forces were placed under an Assistant Chief Commissioner (Services) to cater for their special needs under the British P O R.
Golden Jubilee Patrol Camp attended by 300 Scouts was held at “Jurong Park”, as part of the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Scout Movement.
The Association sent a contingent of seventeen to the Jubilee Jamboree in Sutton Coldfield, England.
Government granted the Scout Movement a piece of land by the sea off Nicol Drive in Teluk Paku for a camp site.
1958
From four Districts, the Association expanded to 13 Districts. Sixty Scouts took part in a combined Youth Rally in honour of HRH the Duke of Edinburgh.
Troops for handicapped children in Social Welfare Institutions were organised.’
The Association built its permanent headquarters. The Association Headquarters was thus able to vacate from its borrowed premises at Armenian Street to Sands House, Clemenceau Avenue.
1959
“Sands House”, the Association’s new Headquarters was opened by H E Sir William Goode, the Yang di-Pertuan Negara of Singapore.
The Association sent a contingent of 19 to the 10th World Jamboree in the Philippines.
The Association acquired a 1 acre land at Telok Paku, 14.5 miles, Nicoll Drive, Changi for camping and sea activities, The campsite was later named, Jubilee Camp. It continued with the lease for 14 years.
1960's
1960
The Telok Paku Camp was opened by the Chief Scout on 3 July 1960, and named “Jubilee Camp” to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Singapore Scouting.
Mr. Mathew J. Chandy was appointed Chief Commissioner.
1962
Three delegates and seven observers attended the 3rd Far East Regional Scout Conference in Thailand.
1963
The Association sent an observer to the 19th World Scout Conference in the Island of Rhodes and the 3rd Commonwealth Conference in Cyprus.
1964
Representatives of the Persekutuan Tanah Melayu, Sabah, Sarawak, and the Singapore Scout Association met in Kuala Lumpur to form the Boy Scouts Association of Malaysia.
The first Far East Training Conference and the First Fund Raising Seminar was hosted by Singapore. The Conference was opened by the Prime Minister, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew.
The Association sent five delegates to the 4th Far East Regional Conference in Kuala Lumpur.
Thirty-six from Malaysia attended the 7th Australian Jamboree in Dandenong, under the sponsorship of the Association. The contingent also made a goodwill tour of Australia.
The Association was honoured by the Yang di-Pertuan Negara (Head of State), when one of its Commissioners, Mr Peter Joe Chia, was appointed an honorary Aide-de-Camp. He served in that capacity till 1970.
Sir Charles MacLean, the Chief Scout of the Commonwealth, visited Singapore.
The Association participated, for the first time, in the Jamboree-on-the-Air.
Emergency Relief Squads were created in all Districts as a contribution to the community to render service during times of national calamities, like floods and fires.
Two new Districts were added, making a total of 15 Districts.
A standard uniform of khaki shirt and trousers with the distinctive white and red scarf was established.
1965
The Singapore Government leased the Association 20 acres of land in the Sarimbun area of Chua Chu Kang, in lieu of “Jurong Park” which was earmarked for industrial development. The campsite was situated at Jalan Bahtera, Lim Chu Kang was leased by government for 30 years, which was renewed in 1983 for another 30 years till 2013.
A contingent attended the 5th National Jamboree in Thailand.
Another contingent of 142 represented the Association at the lst Malaysian Jamboree in Teluk Bahang, Penang.
1966
The Association was admitted as a full member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement
Seven delegates attended the 5th Far East Regional Scout Conference in Taipei.
The Association participated in the National Day Parade; the iconic image of the contingent march past was captured on the $1 dollar “Bird Series” currency note.
1968
A new Constitution replacing the one adopted in 1957 came into force.
Two delegates represented the Association at the 6th Far East Scout Conference in South Korea.
Greater emphasis was placed on Sea Scouting with the appointment of an Assistant Chief Commissioner (Sea Scouts).
1967
Government’s recognition was registered in the selection of the scouts marching contingent at the Singapore’s National Day Parade for its illustration on the $1 “bird” series currency note. Its printing having since stopped, the currency note is now a collector’s item.
1969
Mr. Chu Chui Lum was appointed Chief Commissioner.
A contingent of 52 attended the 6th Thailand National Jamboree in Vajiravudh Camp, Cholburi Province.
A new Policy, Organisation and Rules for the Association, was adopted.
1st President’s Scouts invested.
1970's
1970
The first investiture of the new Association Awards was conducted by President Yusof Bin Ishak, the Chief Scout.
A contingent of 42 attended the 2nd Malaysian Jamboree in Ayer Keroh, Malacca.
The Diamond Jubilee Camp was held at Sarimbun to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of Singapore Scouting. 470 Scouts took part including those from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, Pakistan and Nepal.
A two-storey bungalow at No.5 Martia road off East Coast Road was acquired for scouting activities and named Ee Peng Liang Building.
1971
Lord MacLean, Chief Scout of the Commonwealth, visited Singapore.
The Association was represented at several international events:-
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2nd World Public Relations Seminar, Hong Kong
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13th World Jamboree, Japan
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23rd World Conference, Japan
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5th Commonwealth Conference, Hong Kong.
In addition, it also participated in the Hong Kong Association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations.
Ten Scouts took part in the Perkemahan Wirakarya (World Camp) in Indonesia.
The President’s Scout Award, ‘replacing the Queen’s Scout Award was presented by the Chief Scout for the first time.
1972
Scouts attended a function in honour of HM Queen Elizabeth.
A delegate attended the 8th Asia-Pacific Conference in Manila. At the Conference the Association was selected to host the 9th Asia-Pacific Conference in 1974.
1973
Mr. Soh Teow Seng was appointed Chief Commissioner.
The second investiture of the Awards was conducted by President
An exchange programme for Scouts to Taiwan, Hongkong, Indonesia, Australia and the Philippines was launched with the aim of strengthening international relations.
The Association participated in three Jamborees – 8th Thailand Jamboree, the Philippines Golden Jamboree/1st Asia-Pacific Jamboree and 10th Australian Jamboree.
1974
Singapore hosted its first regional conference, the 9th Asia- Pacific Scout Conference, at Hotel Royal Ramada.
1975
Mr Lim Keng Teck was appointed Chief Commissioner
1980's
1980
First National Jamboree (JAMB 10-80) was held at Sarimbun Scout Camp to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Singapore Scouting.
1982
A set of stamps depicting our scouts in various outdoor activities was issued by the postal department to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the World Scout Movement.
1985
The 20 acres Sarimbun Scout Camp was developed at a cost of 1.7 million to better serve campfire needs with a multi-purpose hall, modern washrooms, dormitories and a central kitchen.
1987
Sands House at Clemenceau Avenue was acquired and the headquarters moved to a two-storey bungalow at 305, Tanglin Road.
1989
The first-ever Scout Cross Country Race at MacRitchie Reservoir on 23 July, attracted 480 enthusiastic participants.
In August, the first ever National Camp was held for the various school uniformed groups (The National Cadet Corps, the National Police Cadet Corps, the Singapore Scout Association, the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade, the Red Cross Society, the Boys’ Brigade and the Girls’ Brigade) at the Sarimbun Scout Camp. It was organised by the National Cadet Corps, but the Singapore Scout Association was proud to contribute its expertise and support in this national event.
1990's
1990
Mr Joseph Wong took over the helm of the Singapore Scout Association as the Chief Commissioner from Mr Lim Keng Teck.
Singapore celebrated 25 years of independence. The Singapore Scout Association launched a new badge as its way of commemorating the nation’s 25th birthday and also for the scouts to identify themselves with the community and the nation.
The Singapore Scout Association celebrated its 80th Anniversary the same year. One of the highlights was the 2nd National Scout Jamboree (JAMB 25-80) where over 800 scouts – both local and from the Asia-Pacific Region got together at the Sarimbun Scout Camp. The Singapore Scout Association became the 3rd organisation in Singapore to send a team of climbers to successfully scale Island Peak (6189m), in Nepal, in December 1990
1991
The Singapore Scout Association and the Singapore Civil Defence Scout Survival Camp equipped scouts with the skills of helping the civilians by rendering first aid, distribute rations and provided support services.
His Majesty, King Carl Gustaf XVI of Sweden, in his capacity as Honorary President of the World Scout Foundation and Patron of the Baden-Powell World Fellowship, made a historic visit to Singapore from 18.8.91 to 19.8.91, to present certificates and medallions to new BP Fellows. Eleven new BP Fellows from Singapore were installed at the ceremony.
1992
Mr Joseph Wong stepped down as Chief Commissioner due to heavy business commitments. Mr Felix Li Tai Ho succeeded him as the Chief Commissioner.
A decision was taken to sell the Ee Peng Liang Building, long used as the Katong Headquarters, at 5 Martia Road, to raise funds to build the new Scouts HQ in Bishan.
As a finale to the National Day Celebration, over 3,000 Scouts joined more than 20,000 members of the public at the memorable National Day Campfire, held at Padang. The Association played a very active role in the campfire organisation.
1993
The 5-year Strategic Plans for the 1990s to increase the membership growth, to provide quality Scouting and to make Scouting the Number One Youth Movement in Singapore were formulated.
Dr Tay Eng Soon, Senior Minister of State for Education, officiated at the Singapore Scout Association’s National Adult Leaders’ Convention, ‘Scouting is Education’, on 10 July. More than 400 scout leaders, school principals and Education Ministry officials were present.
Two community campfires, one at New Town Secondary School and the other at Tao Nan School, were held on Aug 28 to commemorate Singapore’s 28th birthday.
1994
‘Adiji Chief Scout Ceremony’ was held on Feb 27, at Bedok South Secondary School, to welcome the new Chief Scout, His Excellency President Ong Teng Cheong, President of the Republic of Singapore.
In May, the Association hosted the Asia-Pacific Regional Seminar on Financial Management.
Sarimbun Scout Camp was turned into a jungle survival classroom for more than 1,000 campers from all eight Uniformed Youth Organisations and the Youth Wing of the People’s Association at the National Camp ’94. Again, the Singapore Scout Association played a very active role in the camp organisation.
The Association’s mountain-climbing team, led by National Training Commissioner, Mr Mohd Effendy bin Rajab, succeeded in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (5895m), in Tanzania, Africa, in June 1994.
Dr Ee Peng Liang, 81 years old, President of the Singapore Scout Association (1973-1994) passed away peacefully in his home on Aug 24. Singapore Scouting has lost a great benefactor and a dear friend. Mr Chia Shi Teck, Vice-President, took over the helm of the Association following the sudden demise.
Development of Sarimbun Scout Camp was completed with the addition of the Dr Tay Eng Soon Pyramid Challenge Tower, a 7-Storey artificial rock wall, 20 A-frame huts, 3 specially constructed campfire circles and facilities for low rope elements.
1995
The Singapore Scout Association hosted the 18th Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Conference, from June 19 to 23, at the Mandarin Hotel. The Conference theme was ‘Towards 2002: Quality Scouting for a Better World’ with a 10-year time frame, from 1992 to 2002, to attain regional priorities on Youth Programme, Adults in scouting, Management, Finance, Public Relations and Membership Grow. It was officially opened by His Excellency President Ong Teng Cheong, who was the Chief Scout of the Scout Movement in Singapore. It was attended by more than 500 delegates from over 30 countries – making it the largest attendance in Asia-Pacific Scouting history.
The Conference also saw the Chief Commissioner of Singapore, Mr Felix Li Tai Ho, being elected as the new chairman of the Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Committee.
The Conference was preceded by the Asia-Pacific Regional Course for Leader Trainers, from June 12-17, at the Sarimbun Scout Camp. More than 40 trainers from 13 APR countries attended the course, which was officially opened by a former Scout, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Yatiman Yusof. This is the first leader trainer course conducted in the history of Singapore Scouting.
The Conference was also preceded by the 1st Asia-Pacific Regional Youth Forum. Youths from 12 APR countries gathered at the Raffles Institution, for the forum from June16-17. It was officially opened by Mr Sidek Saniff, the Minister of Sate for Education and a former Scout.
1996
The Singapore Scout Association moved into its sparking new HQ building and permanent home at No. 1 Bishan Street 12 on Sep 2. The three-storey high building was built at the cost of $3m and named Ee Peng Liang Building, after its long-serving President and benefactor.
1997
The Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Committee met in Singapore from February 20-23. The Annual World Scout Day Rally (Known as Founder’s Day or BP Day) and the ‘Launch of the Small Kindness Year For Scouts’ was held at Yio Chu Kang Stadium on February 22. More than 6,000 Scouts and members of the Asia-Pacific Region Scout Committee members and Chairman of the various Sub-Committees in the Region attended this grand rally. Mr Lim Boon Heng, Minister without Portfolio, graced the occasion.
The Chief Commissioner, Mr Felix Li Tai Ho, officially launched the International Scout Club on May 24. Only Scouts and Scout Leaders who have participated in an overseas Scout event are eligible to be a member.
A Pre-National Service Camp was organised for Scouts above 17 years old and also for those who were due for NS enlistment, at the Sarimbun Scout Camp, from June 13-15.
Mr Billy Goh Piak Chiang, the Executive Director of the Singapore Scout Association and former International Commissioner was awarded the Bronze Wolf by the World Scout Movement for outstanding contributions of the most exceptional character to Scouting. He is the second Singapore Scout to receive this prestigious award. The first recipient was the late Dr Ee Peng Liang, former President of the Singapore Scout Association.
Mr Lai Kwok Seng, Deputy Chief Commissioner, was nominated by the Scout Council to succeed Mr Felix Li as the Chief Commissioner in 1998.
1998
The official opening on 22 February 1998 by His Excellency, Mr Ong Teng Cheong, President of the Republic of Singapore and our Chief Scout. The new building was named after Dr Ee Peng Liang in memory of all the good work he had done for Scouting and the community through his tireless efforts in fundraising. The man served in 59 organisations and during this lifetime, received 18 decorations and 5 national state honours, including the Public Service Star. He strove to help as the many people as he could ‘regardless of race, “language or religion”.
1999
The Association worked with the Sasha Bear Company to outfit a 12-inch Sasha Bear in a Cadet Scout’s Uniform. The limited production of 600 bears was made. The Scout Sasha bear is the first in Singapore and the World.
The 1st National Website Competition was a project jointly organized by the Singapore Scouts and the Guides Association to encourage and promote the creation of Scout and Guide websites. The competition was judged over the Internet by a panel of 6 judges from the SSA, Guides, MOE and NCB.
The training Team conducted the APR Workshop on Management Techniques for Adult Resources from 20 to 24 November ’99 at the HQ. 22 overseas leaders and 27 locals attended the 5-day workshop. The oversea participants were from Egypt, Philippines, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Malaysia, Australia and Bangladesh.
The Strategic Planning & Implementation Seminar cum Workshop, was held at Hyatt Hotel at Johor Bahru on 11 and 12 December 99 to review the existing strategic plan.
2000's
2000
Senior Citizens Dinner:
The ‘90th Anniversary Party for the Elderly Poor in Singapore’ was held on 4 April 2000. The dinner was conceived to inculcate the importance of respecting and caring for the elderly, to our scouts. The dinner was appropriately timed as the year 2000 was also the ‘International Year of the Elderly’.
The 2nd Course for Leader Trainer was held at the new Sand’s Training Institute in early December, with participation from 11 overseas countries.
Millennium Jamboree:
The Millennium Jamboree was organized as part of the Association’s 90th Anniversary. There were approximately 1200 local participants and about 300 overseas participants from 20 countries.
Mr Goh Chok Tong, the Prime Minister of Singapore, officiated the Opening Ceremony. The Jamboree theme was the ‘Learning Jamboree’ and offered various physically and mentally challenging activities.
The five days event came to an end on 1 Jan 2001. RADM Teo Chee Hean, Minister for Education & Second Minister for Defence, marked the end of the celebrations by closing a massive campfire.
2001
The 3rd National Patrol Camp 2001 (1st National Cadet Scout Camp):
18 Scout Groups registered for the 3rd NPC organized from 29 November to 3 December 2001 at Sarimbun Camp together with the 1st National Cadet Scout Camp 2001 from 1 to 2 December 2001 which had 137 Cadets participants. The ‘Open House cum Fun Fair’ was also held on 2 December 2001.
20th Asia Pacific Regional Conference:
The 20th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference was in New Delhi, India from 7 to 11 October 2001. Mr Anthony Thng PBM, was elected the Chairman of the APR Scout Committee for 2001 – 2004. Mr Tan Cheng Kiong was appointed as the Chairman of strategy committee, Mr Thrumurgan as member of programme committee, Mr Chay Hong Leng as member of marketing committee and Mr Tan Kay Kerng as member of adult resources committee.
Invitation Programme, Boy Scouts of Nippon
Mr Edmund Tay & Ms Lim Peng were the 2 leaders, who attended the above mentioned programme from 30 July 2001 to 13 August 2001.
International Youth Camp, Brunei Darussalam
5 participants attended the youth camp with Mr Ho Chee Heng, DC for Tampines as the contingent leader from 5 August to 11 August 2001.
9th Malaysian Goodwill Camp & 22nd Johore State Scout General Assembly
Mr. Sham Hao Ming, the contingent leader was accompanied by 8 scouts from 10 to 14 November 2001.
Course for Assistant Leader Trainer
This course was held at the Sand’s Training Institution from 24 to 29 November 2001. 33 participants with 9 local leaders attended. The participating countries were from Malaysia, Philippines, Korea and Hong Kong.
Mr Nicholas Tang was appointed Chief Commissioner
2002
Invitation Programme, Boys Scouts of Nippon
Mr Don Keithsiri Wijendra, Scout Leader, Tan Jun Xiang and Teo Sheng Yong, Kenny, Scouts attended the above from 28 July – 10 August 2002. They took the opportunity to attend the International Patrol Jamboree from 24 – 28 July 2002 at Jeju Island Korea and then to the Invitation Programme.
23rd Asia Pacific/13th Nippon Jamboree
The above event was attended by 5 scouts from Cheung Cheng High School and headed by Zaher bin Wahab. The jamboree was held on 3 to 7 August 2002 at Maishima Sports Island, Osaka, Japan
4th Malacca Historical City Jamboree
The jamboree was held from 25 to 29 May 2002 at Malacca Scout Camp, Bukit Katil. The contingent was headed by Mr Han Lim Juan with 119 participants
36th World Scout Conference, Thessaloniki
The above mentioned conference was held from 13 to 19 July 2002. Chief Commissioner, Mr Nicholas Tang led the contingent comprising:
Mr Anthony Thng -1st Dy Chief Commissioner
Mr Tan Cheng Kiong – 2nd Dy Chief Commissioner
Mr Patrick Tan – Area Commissioner
Mr Tan Kay Kerng – Area Adult Resources Commissioner
Mr Ho Chee Heng – District Commissioner
Mr Noraini Mohamad – Training Team Secretary
Ms Jayanthi – Staff
Mr. Noriman Ali Salam from Dunman Dove Scout Group and Ms Teo Ee Jean from Marlin Sea Scout Group (Rovers) represented the Association in the Youth Forum at Metsovo, Greece held from 8 – 11 July 2002.
20th World Scout Jamboree, Thailand
The above jamboree was held from 29 December 2002 to 7January 2003 at Sattahip, Thailand. The contingent of 138 boys and leaders was headed by Mr Chia Chong Meng. The Flag Presentation for the jamboree was graced by Mr Abdullah Tarmugi, Speaker of Parliament on 18 December 2002.
2003
Singapore hosted the 1st APR risk Management Workshop.
The workshop was held from 19-23 November 2003 at the Salvation Army Changi Conference Centre. Mr. Malcolm Tan was the workshop director. There was a total of 46 participants from Bangladesh, Republic of China, Malaysia, India, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Thailand and Hong Kong.
ALT Noraini assisted in the Asia-Pacific Regional Strategic Management Workshop and Training System Development Workshop in Brunei, and Adults in Scouting Workshop in Kuala Lumpur as course staff. ALT Supramaniam, ALT John Lee and PCLT Han Song Guang attended the Training System Development Workshop in Brunei.
12the Goodwill Camporee
The above camp was held from 5 – 8 December 2003 at Trang National Scout Camp, Trang Province, south of Thailand. A total of 270 participants formed the Singapore Contingent led by Mr Han Lim Juan.
Asia Pacific Workshop on Rover Scouting
Dr Chua Kian Wee and Ms Tok Sol Ling represented Singapore on a fact finding mission to the Asia Pacific Region Workshop on Promotion of Rover Scouting in the Region in Manila from 1 – 5 June 2003.
2004
Family Festival
The Singapore Scout Association (SSA) participated in the inaugural Family Festival project initiated by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) at Suntec City on 26 – 28 November 2004.
Famboree
SSA organized a Famboree, in September (the term “Famboree” was coined from two words – Family and Jamboree) to bring past, present and future scouts together with their families. It was no coincidence that the year 2004 was also the “International Year of the Family” and the event contributed to society by promoting family togetherness. Famboree comprised of three main components: a 3.5km trekking activity, the National Pioneering Competition and a mega-campfire held at Bishan Park II. The Guest-of-Honour for the event was the Minister of Defence, Rear Admiral Teo Chee Hean
21st Asia Pacific Region (APR) Scout Conference in Brunei
The 21st Asia Pacific Regional Scout Conference was held in Brunei Darussalam from 6-11 December 2004. The conference was attended by eight participants from The Singapore Scout Association, led by the Chief Commissioner, Mr Nicholas Tang
Asia Pacific Region (APR) Jamboree in Korea
This was held from 5-11 August 2004 at Mt Sorak, Kangwon Province, Korea. This event was led by Mr Edmund Tay with 12 participants.
Blair Atholl International Jamboree 2004
This event was held from 19 July – 4 August 2004 in Scotland. A contingent of 15 scouts was led by District Commissioner of Serangoon, Mr Yeo Kai Cheow
World Scout Moot in Taiwan
The World Scout Moot was held in Taiwan with six different Expedition Centers and a main Campsite at Hualien (Dongwa Village), Taiwan from 31 July – 10 August 2004. The Singapore representatives included Mr Eric Lam, Mr Andrew and and Mr Chua Kian Wee.
5th Malacca City Jamboree 2004
The 5th Malacca City Jamboree was held from 29 May – 3 Jun at the Malacca Scout Camp in Bukit Katil, Malacca. The Singapore Contingent was led by Mr Koh Kar Meng and two Sub-Contingent Leaders, Mr Desmond Foo and Mr Kenny Leong. The District Commissioner for Bukit Panjang, Mr Andrew Chua was the Contingent Advisor and Mr Han Lim Juan was the Contingent Coordinator. The whole Contingent comprised of 15 Adult Leaders, and 214 participants from 22 Scout Groups. At the Jamboree, the Chief Commissioner, Mr Nicholas Tang received the “Anugerah Gemilang President” Award from the state commissioner at the Opening Ceremony.
Nippon Invitation Programme
The Nippon Invitation Programme was held from 28 July – 12 August 2004 in Japan. The programme was attended by four participants, led by Contingent Leader, Mr Abdul Razak, a full time staff.
2005
A Good Turn A Day
Held on Friday 21st of July 2005, our Chief Scout, President Mr S R Nathan, graced the event as part of the President’s Challenge 2005. This event was the initiative of the Singapore Kindness Movement (SKM) of whom Mr Noel Hon, our President is also its Chairman. We collaborated with the SKM secretariat to renew the Scouts’ commitments to doing a “Good Turn A Day” as a daily act of kindness to people around us. The ceremony was attended by about 150 cub scouts and extension scouts, parent and volunteers.
Family Festival 2005
The Family Festival 2005 marked a breakthrough in many ways for the SSA. The Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports invited us to play a key role in the Family Festival by engaging the children, parents and grandparents in fun scouty activities.
Eurojam 2005
The Eurojam was held in Hylands Park near Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom from 29 July 2006 to 10 August 2006. A contingent of 10 boys from Raffles Institution 01, Raffles Institution 02, St Joseph’s Institution and St Andrew School was lead by Mr Leon Tan and Mr Ng June Ren.
8th International Youth Gathering for Cultural Exchange
The youth gathering was held in Cairo, Egypt from 21 Aug – 31 Aug 2005. It attended by two young leaders. They were Mr Kumanan Ilangovan from Beatty Beaver Scout Group and Mr Xiang Hao from Fox Scout Group.
9th World scout Youth Forum
Mr Mohammad Zhafrie bin Jalil (Ag District Commissioner of Bedok District) and Mr Noriman Alin Salam (National Scout Commissioner) attended the 9th World Scout Youth Forum from 29 Aug 2005 to 1 Sep 2005. The forum was held in Hamammet, Tunisia. They later joined the Singapore delegation to the 37th World Scout Conference.
37th World Scout Conference in Tunisa
The SSA sent a delegation of 20 members to the conference. Apart from the key personnel who were delegates, the rest formed the support team for the World Scout Jamboree 2011 bid. SSA made a bid for the 2011 World Scout Jamboree at the World Scout Conference held in Tunisia in September. However, when the results were announced, SSA managed to secure 221 votes compared to Sweden’s 288 votes. Japan and Australia trailed 152 and 138 votes respectively. SSA thus lost the bid to Sweden. Although we lost the bid, we managed to put Singapore on the world scouting map.
Mr. Anthony Thng was also presented the Bonze Wolf Award at the conference. He is the 3rd person in Singapore to receive the Award.
Hong Kong Exchange Programme
Ms Catherine Tan (District Commissioner of Ang Mo Kio District) led a contingent of 32 scouts and leaders to Hong Kong for an exchange programme with the 1357th Kowloon Group and 45th Scout Group of the Tuen Man District. The exchange programme was held from 23rd -29th Dec 2005.
25th Asia Pacific Region Jamboree
A contingent of 117 strong attended the regional Jamboree from 28 December 2005 to 3 January 2006. The contingent was led by Assistant Area Commissioner (East) Mr Ho Chee Heng. The regional Jamboree was held at, Sattahip, Chonburi, Thailand. A 102 strong day tripper contingent of cub scouts and leaders led by Ms Madelene Seow (National Cub Scout Commissioner) joined in the Jamboree as part of the day tripper event.
2006
Kindred Sprit @ South West Campfire
SSA collaborated with the South West CDC to organize a campfire on 12 March which was officiated by the Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong
Bishan – Toa Payoh North CC Family Campfire
SSA assisted Bishan-Toa Payoh North CC to organize a Family Campfire on 19 June which was officiated by Mr. Hri Kumar, MP for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.
Strategic Plan review: 24-25June
SSA held a workshop to review its Strategic plan in June at the Civil ServiceClub in Changi
Join the Celebration-Fly our Flag
For the first time, the Singapore Scout Association (SSA), a corporate member of the Peoples’ Association (PA) since 1960 has joined the PA grassroots organisations to rally more Singaporeans to display the National Flag. The event was officiated by Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister of MCYC on 8 July at the Bukit Panjang Plaza.
Joint Community Development Project: 11-13 Aug
In Aug, a joint community development project with the Gerakan Pramuka was held Batam Island, Indonesia to repair a jetty and improve the school compound.
The Joint National Camp for Centennial Celebration of World Scouting Movement, Taiwan The contingent of 29 scouts and leaders attended the Jamboree from 26 July to 4 Aug 2006. It was led by Mr. Yeo Kai Cheow, DC (Serangoon).
Scouts Association of Japan Invitation Programme
The invitation programme was attended by 2 ventures and led by Mr. Lester Lee, Assistant Chief Commissioner (Central) from 29 July 2006 to 10 August 2006.
14th Nippon Jamboree
The contingent of 40 scouts and leaders attended. It was led by Mr. Cheong Kam Wai of Whitley Scorpion Scout Group from 3 – 8 August 2006
A Taste of Tradition
SSA also collaborated with the South West CDC to run an activity at West Mall as part of the Interracial Harmony Day.
APR Workshops
4 Leader attended the APR workshop on working with Youth with special needs, held in Brisbane, Australia in Oct and 4 leaders to the APR Event Management workshop held in Jeju, Korea. 2 Staffs attended the Branding and Media Communication workshop held in Macau in Nov.
A President’s Scout Inauguration Ceremony -31 Oct
This event was held at the State Room for past and current PSA holders. The ceremony was officiated by Chief Scout, the President of Singapore.
A charity film premiere -29 Nov
The above film “Open Season” was shown to raise funds for the association. It was held at the new Picture House
APR Rover Peace Baton 16-17 Dec
Participated in the Rover Peace Baton, receiving it from Indonesia on the 16th and handing it over to the Malaysian counterpart, the following day
2007
The new SSA’s Logo was launched by Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth & Sports cum Second Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts at the World Scout Day Dinner held on 22nd Feb at the SCDF Club in Bukit Batok
More than 300 members participated in the Chingay themed “Parade of Dreams officiated by The Chief Scout on 24th February
The Chief Scout officially launched the Annual Job Week on 6th March at the Istana
Mr Nicholas Tang, the Chief Commissioner led SSA delegation to the 19th European Region Scout Conference in Slovenia from 5th -11th May
Under the leadership of Mr Tan Teck Tin (ACC North East), the scout members under NE area adopted Sungei Punggol (two years initially) as a strategic partner of PUB under ‘Our Water Programme” on 27 May
Led by Mrs Margaret Anderson (DC Clementi), 76 participants took part in the first ever “Jamboree on the Move” rotating from Melaka to Batam and then to Singapore from 26th May – 1st June
The President Charity Dinner officiated by the Chief Scout was held on 22nd June at Meritus Mandarin Hotel
The Chief Scout graced the Flag Presentation Ceremony at Istana on 17th July as a formal send-off for the 61-strong contingent representing Singapore in the 21stWorld Scout Jamboree in UK (26th July – 8th August). The contingent was led by Mr Andrew Ang, Deputy National Programme Commissioner
The Chief Commissioner graced the “Scouting Sunrise” ceremony at SSA HQ on Wednesday 1st August @ 0800 hrs to commemorate start of the Scout Movement
Mr Gavin Pah Wen Xiang, a scout leader led a delegation of 10 attended the 13th DMZ Peace Trekking (9th-19th August ) in Demilitarized Zone in Korea
Led by Mr Amos Sim, Sea Scout Programme Commissioner, a 7-member delegation (including a Girl Guide) scaled the BP Peak from 28th August to 16th September
Mr Yatiman Yusof, Scout Council Member led the SSA delegation to the first ASEAN Scout Conference held in KL from 3rd to 5th September
Dr Mohd Effendy, Executive Director led the SSA delegation at the 13thAfrica Scout Conference in Kigali, Rwanda from 3rd to 8th September and to then to the Eurasia Scout Conference in Yalta, Ukraine
Mr Yeo Kai Cheow (DC Serangoon) led the 3-man team at the APR, ICT Course held in Kuala Lumpur (KL) from 5th -9th September
Three Rovers represented SSA at the first Brunei Rover Moot from 6th -11th September in Brunei, Darussalam
SSA was participated in the first ever Conference for Youth Leaders of Uniformed Groups (UGs) held from 7th-9th September
Released on 19th September, the colourful set of nine stamps proudly featured the uniform and the crest of SSA together with 8 other UGs in Singapore
The Scout Charity Golf Tournament was graced by the Chief Scout on 2 Oct 2007
Six Rovers led by Mr Muhammad Khair (Assistant Rover Scout Commissioner) represented SSA at the 5th APR Youth Forum at Shibuyaku, Tokyo, Japan from 12th -15th October
Led by the Chief Commissioner, a delegation of 29 members represented SSA at the APR Regional Scout Conference held I Tokyo from 18th- 23rd Oct
The SSA delegation to the 25th Arab Region Scout Conference (7th – 12th November) held in Cairo , Egypt was led by Mr Yatiman Yusof, Scout Council Member
Led by the Chief Commissioner, SSA participated in the 23rd Interamerica Regional Scout Conference in Quito, Ecuodor from 24th -28th November
62 participants led by M M Supramanian, an ALT attended the 14th Goodwill Camporee at Rimba Kiara Park in KL from 29th Nov -6th December
The Scout Guild, organized a Charity Film Premiere-“Open Season” Scout Guild on 6 December to raise fund for SSA
Led by Mr Yeo Kai Cheow (DC Serangoon), 21 members participated in the Chiangmai International Camporee in Thailand from 18th -24th December
Mr Edmund Tay (Scout Programme Commissioner) led the SSA contingent at the 18th New Zealand Jamboree Christchurch, New Zealand from 28th Dec – 5th Jan 2008
2008
SSA ‘s representative Ms Yee Sze was the only Asian at the 17th Aussie Rover Moot (30 December 07 -12 Jan 08) held at Cataract Scout Park, NSW, Australia
SSA was represented by 5 Rover Scouts at the Taiwan National Rover Conference (29 Jan – 2 Feb 08) at Taipei Taiwan
Mr Teo Ser Luck, Parliamentary Secretary, MCYS officiated at the World Scout Day Dinner on 22 February at the SCDF Club at Bukit Batok
The Chief Scout officiated at the launching of the Annual Job Week at the Istana on 4th March
As part of SSA’s bid to host the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in 2015, SSA hosted the visit (7th-10th) of some 98 Chief Commissioners/International Commissioners. The Chief Scout hosted the Welcome Dinner at the Istana on 8th March. The Farewell Dinner at the Botanical Garden was hosted by the Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for MCYS
Rover Scout VKK Arumugam represented SSA at the 3rd International Gathering for Scouting and Humanitarian Action held at Sharjah Scout Mission, UAE from 17-23 March
Five Rover Scouts from Southern Waves Open Group and Serangoon Eagle Scout Group represented SSA at the Thailand International Youth Forum (5-9 May) held at Vajiravudh Scout Camp, Thailand
The Chief Scout conferred the Good Service Awards (2007) on 102 recipients on 8th May 2008 at the Istana
Led by Mr Yatiman Yusof, Chairman 2015 WSJ Bid committee, a 77 strong delegation actively promoted Singapore in the bid to host 23rd World Scout Jamboree in 2015 at the 38thWorld Scout Conference (14-18 July) in Jeju, Korea. SSA lost the bid to Japan. Mr Tan Sijie, our Youth member delegate also made a presentation on the success stories of the projects undertaken by the Rovers under Scout of the World programme during the Conference
Bedok District Commissioner Zhafrie Jalil led a delegation of 15 scouts to the 31st Blair Atholl International Jamborette (22 July-6 August) held at Perthshine, Scotland
Led by Ms Sidah Jasmin, a contingent of 20 extension scout members from four MIND schools represented SSA at the 10th Nippon Agoonoree (31 July -4 August) held at Kobe City, Japan
Led by Ms Lindsy Tan, an 18 strong SSA contingent attended the 12th Korea International Jamboree (6-11 August) held at Mount Sorak, Korea
Mr Yatiman Yusof (Scout Council Member) led a 3-member delegation to represent SSA at 3rd International Union of Muslim Scout Jamboree (18-24 August) held at Bukit Katil Camp, Melaka, Malaysia
Rover Scout, Edieusdi Ahmad represented SSA at the 11th International Youth Gathering for Cultural Exchange and 17th Arab Rover Moot (15-25 August) in Sana’a, Yemen
A 45-strong SSA contingent led by Yishun District Commissioner Silver Rajoo & Area Resource Commissioner (Southeast), Michael Poh attended the 2nd ASEAN Scout Jamboree (17-27 Oct) at Cibubur, Jakarta, Indonesia
Tan Si Jie, led a delegation of 3 Rovers to the 18th National Rover Moot (22-26 Oct) held at Petchaburi, Thailand
Cub Scout Programme Commissioner Madalene Seow and her team of leaders organized the Cub Scout Goodwill tour from 25 Nov- 5 Dec to Osaka & Tokyo, Japan. Some 150 cub scouts and their leaders participated
A team of 13 scouts led by Contingent Leader Loh Chee Hwa together with another 5 leaders participated in the 15th Goodwill Camporee (12-16 December) at Bangsak, Phang-Nga, Thailand
Rover Scout Programme Commissioner Muhammad Khair led a contingent of 6 ISTs and 13 scouts from SSA to participate at Thailand International Camporee (27 December 08 – 1 Jan 09) held at Chiangmai Thailand
2009
Chief Commissioner Nicholas Tang led a 5-member Senior Management Team in the 6th Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Leaders Summit (1st-4th March) held in Nepal.
Muhd Khair and another Rover Scout represented SSA in the Thailand International Youth Forum (11th -17th June)
Rover Scout Leader Ye Bingjia together with one Rover Scout and another Venture Scout represented SSA in the 1st World Jamboree for Ethnic Chinese Scouts held in Taiwan from 30th June -9th June 2009.
Led by Mr Tan Sijie, Coordinator of the Scout of the World Award (SWA), a delegation of 8 Rover Scouts represented SSA in the conservation & community project codenamed “Project Orion- Saving Turtles” in Setiau, Terengganu (20th June – 9th July ) which was carried out in collaboration with WWF (Malaysia).
Mr Tan Sijie, Coordinator of the Scout of the World Award (SWA) and Asohk, a Rover Scout represented SSA at TFL Scout Expo (29th July -15 August) in Swaziland.
Rover Scout Stanley Tan Hong Han represented SSA at the 12th International Youth Gathering for Cultural Exchange (20th – 30th July) at Cairo, Egypt
Led by Mr. Malcolm Tan (ACC South West), a 17- member strong contingent represented SSA at the 26th Asia Pacific Regional (APR) Jamboree (26th Dec 09 to 3rd Jan 10) at Mt. Makiling, Philippines.
Mr Tan Cheng Kiong took over from Mr Nicholas Tang as the Chief Commissioner.
