A place where friendship and future leadership intertwine awaits you. This is the National Training and Activity Scout Centre. It is a place deeply rooted in Brunei’s scouting history. The Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association is the nation’s oldest non-governmental organization. It was established in 1933.
Marsal Maun founded the Scouts Association. He was a teacher at Jalan Pemancha Malay School. The initial group had only 12 boys. Abang Mohd Zaidi Abang Taha, a Sarawak officer and headmaster, served as leader. Marsal Maun was his assistant.
In 1934, the Bruneian government started supporting the scout movement. They provided an annual grant of B150$. Scout members even received free uniforms. By 1940, scouting had spread to the Belait District. Salleh Masri established a team of 40 scouts led by Basir Taha.
The Brunei State Scouts officially registered with The Boy Scout Association in London in 1939. That same year, the first national Scout camp occurred at Kampong Penanjong. Zainal Abidin Ali organized it. Participation included scouts from Brunei-Muara and Tutong Districts.
The National Training and Activity Scout Centre is more than just a location. It is a symbol of growth and unity. Brunei scouts strengthened their fourth law here. It states “A Scout is a Brother to All Scouts”.
In 1971, a new headquarters and camping area were built in Gadong. Prince Mohamed Bolkiah formally opened the structure. In 2005, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah opened the PPNBD Headquarters and Scout Complex in Kampong Beribi.
The National Training and Activity Scout Centre has hosted significant events. The first jamboree occurred here in 1985. His Majesty the Sultan officiated the 4th National Jamboree Brunei Darussalam here. It enhanced interactions among scouts. The theme was ‘Our Scouts, Our Future’. It celebrated the 80th anniversary of scouting in Brunei Darussalam.
Scouting in Brunei is open to all ages. Groups range from 7-year-old Tunas Scouts to 26-year-old Rover Scouts. The vision for Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association is ambitious. By 2024, they aim to have 5000 members. They strive to be an innovative youth movement that embraces technology. They want to be environmentally friendly. They seek committed leaders. They desire complete facilities. They appreciate government and private sector support.
The mission of scouting is to contribute to young people’s development. It helps build a better world. This is achieved through a value system based on the Scout Law.
The National Training and Activity Scout Centre stands as a testament to Brunei’s commitment to scouting. It embodies friendship. It develops leadership. It shapes the future.