Day 1 : We're Finally Here!

By: Carol Chan

When we arrived at Kuala Lumpur, we were greeted by a welcoming party from the Malaysian Scouts.

They greeted us with smiles and warmth and made us feel extremely welcomed. We have been travelling for over 20 hours, but despite our exhaustion, we are excited to officially begin this international service project!

After arriving at our accommodations, we only had 30 minutes to rest up. Shortly after, we had to change into our full uniforms and rush to a reception dinner with the Malaysian Scout Club at the Restoran Softshell Specialist. Senior Malaysian Scouters courteously escorted us to the dinner location from our hostels. On our way there, we were able to experience the Malaysian traffic and hear a bit about the city from our drivers. During dinner, we were able to mingle with many Malaysian Scouts. For many of us, this is the first time we have experienced cultural exchange with Scouts overseas. Initially, I thought that the dinner may be a little awkward, however, the Scout groups made us feel like family.

At the reception, we were able to experience Malaysian cuisine for the first time. We had curry, fried rice, pomelo pudding, soft-shelled crab and more. It was very different from the Malaysian food I have eaten in Vancouver. Here, the flavours are more aromatic and the good company made the experience more memorable and enjoyable.

Along with the Rovers at my table, we exchanged different traditional campfire games with the Malaysian Scouts. Playing these games and explaining the rules with one another brought us closer together. Since many of the Scouts could also speak Cantonese and Mandarin, we conversed in multiple languages and were able to ensure that they understood each game. Additionally, we were able to compare and contrast Malaysian and Canadian Scout culture. Other tables bonded through conversation, trading memorabilia and even exchanging neckerchiefs.

It was a pleasure to meet Dato’ Seri Dr. Lee Choon Kui and Dato’ Seri Dr. Chong Lian Foo. As well, our contingent leader, Scouter John, was interviewed by the China Press Burhad, a Malaysian Chinese newspaper! We felt extremely welcomed by the Malaysian Scouts who took time out of their busy schedules to meet us at the airport and organize a reception dinner for us. Many new friendships were created tonight and we hope to maintain close ties with our Malaysian Scouters.

Tomorrow, we will be heading to Scouter Lew’s school to continue mingling with the Malaysian scouts!

We look forward to the cultural exchange that will be happening.