1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background and Objectives

The 2009 Singapore Brunei Student Leaders Adventure Camp was the third of a

recent series of annual camps performed alternately between Brunei and Singapore. The

camping programme in Singapore started from the 13th to the 18th September, albeit pre-camp

activities occurred prior.

The objectives of this programme include, among others, the desire to foster a deep

understanding and camaraderie between the participants from Brunei and Singapore; to share

knowledge on the similarities and contrasts in culture between the two nations; and, for the

Brunei team, to gain in-depth experience on the learning and living culture of Singapore.

1.2. The Chaperons

Similar to the 2007 Adventure Camp, this adventure camp utilised the service of four

chaperons through a selection process. I was elected Chief Chaperon and was responsible in

overseeing the preparation processes from start to end as well as being the focal point in

liaising with the International Unit, other chaperons, students and their parents. Three other

chaperons completed the team and they are:

• Cikgu Norasusanti binti Hj. Mohd Latif from SOASC

• Cikgu Rosimah binti Mohd. Tahir from SM Sultan Sharif Ali

• Cikgu Omar Arif bin Abdullah Latif from Maktab Anthony Abell

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Apart from the 2009 team, chaperons from the 2007 team also assisted in the

preparations based on past information. Cikgu Danny, in particular, liaised with the

Singapore officers in updating information. Their contributions will be mentioned in greater

detail in Section 2.

1.3. The Participants

20 PMB Level students from various schools were selected as participants for the

programme (see Appendix A). Although none of the chaperons were involved in the selection

process, it was revealed that the selection was done in a thorough manner with only students

who excel in several areas of skills were shortlisted. It was learnt that aptitude and academic

levels as well as the ability to carry oneself in a conversation were prioritised. A balanced

team of 10 boys and 10 girls was the eventual result.

2. PREPARATIONS BEFORE THE CAMP

2.1. Logistics

Several agenda fell under logistics, including the preparations of a pre-camp itinerary,

logbooks, student files, programme logo, nametags, financing, insurance, and the search for

sponsors, among others. Although the chaperon team worked together, I found it also fitting

to delegate tasks among chaperons so as to achieve a more efficient workflow. These will be

elaborated further as the report proceeds.

Pre-camp Itinerary

The itinerary was drafted during the first chaperon meeting held on the 13th floor of the

International Unit, Ong Sum Ping. The draft was constructed with the final tweaking and

printing of the schedule performed by Cikgu Omar Arif.

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Logbook

The draft of the logbook was constructed by all the chaperons with the final improvements on

additional pages and theme performed by me. Printing and binding was by Cikgu

Nurasusanti. The purpose of the logbook was literally for students to log in their activities

during the camping trip. It also provided information in forms of prayer schedules, item

checklists and maps of Singapore.

Programme Logo and Nametags

I created and printed both the programme logo and the official nametags of the Brunei team

(see Appendix B). The logo was used as the front cover of the logbook and the nametag. The

nametag itself is a compression of important information as explained in Appendix B).

Finance

Finance was solely handled by Cikgu Rosimah Tahir, being responsible for both transactions,

records and the safekeeping of students’ and chaperons’ money.

Sponsorship Liaison

Cikgu Nurasusanti was solely responsible in handling the issues of sponsor as she had good

rapport with potential sponsors. Successful sponsorship included those from DST Com,

Alimen Enterprise and The Narcotics Control Bureau Brunei.

2.2. Venues

After contemplating on each of the chaperon’s school as a probable venue, it was

eventually decided that SOAS College would be the most conducive because it has a decent-

sized gymnasium and was an easy to reach location for the majority of the team members.

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Apart from the gymnasium, the SOAS running track was also utilised for the fitness test, and

Seri Kenangan beach for a hint of outdoor experience.

2.3. Activities

A plethora of activities occurred throughout the pre-camp sessions in parallel with the

prepared itinerary (see Appendix C). These will be briefly elaborated in their respective

sections.

2.3.1 Signing Ceremony

The pre-camp activity was initiated with the signing of agreement by the participants

and their parents, which took place in SOAS College Auditorium on the 17 th of November.

The ceremony witnessed the first gathering of the team and the introduction of the chaperons.

The ceremony also included a visual presentation prepared by the 2007 chaperons, followed

by a briefing from respective International Unit officers and the 2009 chaperons. The

ceremony was concluded with a very informative question and answer session which brought

up issues the chaperon found to need attention.

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2.3.2. Team Building

Since participants came into the team without knowing one another, a majority of the

initial activities involved team building. Team building sessions were carried out on the 22nd

November and 2nd December. On the 2nd December in particular, representatives from the

Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council were invited to execute a myriad of team building

activities.

Within 2 sessions, participants were already at ease with one another. Their rapport

culminated in a final team building sessions which took place in Seri Kenangan Beach on the

11th December. Students learnt how to work together in starting up a barbeque flame, a skill

that was expected to be equipped with come Singapore.

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2.3.3. Performing Arts

The 29th of November and the 2nd and 5th of December, the students spent most of the

sessions on practicing their cultural and singing performance. As these were to be expected of

the team come Singapore, experts were called in to help train the students. Renowned dance

instructor for student exchange programmes, Cikgu Didi, was invited to groom the students

into able dancers, while I trained the students in singing as choir singing is one of my forte.

Since the dance routine was itself demanding with a lot of motions and running

involved, it indirectly contributed to the fitness of students. It also helped them in performing

as a cohesive unit, a characteristic that is required of them in Singapore.

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2.3.4. Fitness Preparations

Due to the mentally and physically demanding nature of the programme, it was

expected of students to be sufficiently fit in ‘mind over matter’ situations. Cikgu Omar Arif,

as a PE teacher, was most apt in organising a fitness test which comprised of jumps, runs and

stretches, as well as analyses of everyone’s Body Mass Index. Although only one session was

spared for fitness on the 9th of December, the fact that students spent 3 other sessions in

practicing their rigorous cultural dance routine was enough to test students’ mettle.

The majority of students were found to be sufficiently fit for the programme, with one

student in particular, Faiz, excelling in the fitness test and was graded A overall in parallel

with the guidelines of a general fitness test. It was revealed that he was actively preparing for

the programme during his own time with jogs and runs.

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3. CAMPING IN SINGAPORE

3.1. Departure Flight to Singapore

The Brunei contingent had two departure schedules, with the first departure involving

Cikgu Rosimah Tahir and the student Nadiah bte Hj. Hassan. The second departure which

was scheduled at 6.55pm involved the remaining 22 members of the contingent (19 students

and 3 teachers). The chaperons and students gathered in Brunei International Airport starting

at 3.00pm, and throughout the process, handled the checking-in of baggage and the

administration and distribution of boarding passes. Prior to these, the students were

informally briefed on what needed to be done with their hand carry luggage and the labelling

of baggage.

I was responsible for the distribution of the chaperons and students’ passes, and there

and then marked the first time that the contingent wore the passes officially. After every

agendum was settled, students were given the opportunity to spend time with their families. I

myself was interviewed by a representative of the Brunei Times (see Appendix D) regarding

the programme itself.

Around less than two hours before boarding, I gestured the contingent to gather for

the recitation of the Doa Selamat and a group photo for the press release (see Appendix E). I

also took the liberty to brief the parents of the participants of our roles and responsibilities as

chaperons and ensured them that we would safeguard their children.

As we arrived at the passport checking counters, it was apparent that first time flyers

needed to be ushered. The system that we employed involved the sandwiching of participants

based on the buddy system list. As chief chaperon and leader of Group A, I was first in line,

followed by 10 male students, and then Cikgu Omar Arif, then followed by 10 female

students and the final two female chaperons. This system was used throughout the

programme in situations where orderly manners of motion were demanded of us.

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Once in the waiting hall, students were again briefed by each chaperon on the

discipline and etiquette that students had to portray and abide to. Before entering our flight,

the males managed to squeeze in enough time for Maghrib prayers, while the females, seeing

that they were short of time, decided to Qada their prayers.

There was a slight delay on our flight but it didn’t ruin the smooth running of the

flight experience itself. The flight took approximately 2 hours, landing in Changi Airport half

an hour behind schedule. Nonetheless, the contingent arrived safely, and went through

immigration smoothly. We were astounded by the welcoming reception we received from the

Singaporeans as all the Camelot trainers and officers from MOE Singapore were present to

greet us the moment we stepped out of the airport. We rode a bus and made our way to

Labrador Camp. It was a 30 minutes journey but the students were at awe with the night view

of Singapore.

We were given a briefing on the

lodging and the activities planned.

The officers from MOE Singapore

and Camelot Trainers also took the

opportunity to introduce

themselves. The night ended with a

late snack of pizza provided by our

hosts.

3.2. Programme Information

3.2.1. Lodging

Labrador Camp, which is situated in the Pasir Panjang area, was a collection of

buildings exclusively for camping activities. It was formerly a school, but was converted in

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2005 into one of Singapore’s few camping centres. Although it had the structure of a school,

the amenities that it provided hinted its grandeur as a well cared camping site. Upon entering

the compound, we were ushered into our rooms; what were previously classrooms were now

fitted with bunk beds enough to accommodate around 20 per room.

With regards to the Brunei contingent, 2 ground floor rooms were provided for the

boys while 2 1st floor rooms were prepared for the girls. The chaperons were also allocated

separate rooms for males and females, each just a few doors away from their respective

gender groups.

Other facilities that could be found in the compound included four shower rooms,

each with at least 10 shower cubicles; a laundry machine; a cafeteria and camping activity

areas. We negotiated in having one spacious room to perform prayers in, which the

Singaporean officers generously provided in alacrity.

3.2.2. Officers, Staff and Students from Singapore

The number of officers and staff from the Singapore contingent was impressive. It

appeared that there were two parties of officers, with one being the officers from MOE and

the other being the Camelot trainers. A brief introduction during our arrival greatly helped in

learning their names. The MOE officers that were involved included Mr. Seng, Mr. Hasnan,

Ms. Carmen and Ms. Michelle, while the Camelot trainers included their head trainer Alan,

and his merry lot of trainers Alvin, Aqasha, Wayne, Fiona and Jay. The roles that these

individuals undertook will be elaborated as the report progresses.

Students from Singapore did not arrive until the day after our arrival. They comprised

of 6 students from Jun Yuan School and 20 students from Pei Hwa School. Initially, they

planned for a 40 membered student contingent but a few were unable to attend due to other

commitments. The teachers of each school were Cikgu Khairul and Mrs. Jennifer. Cikgu

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Khairul opted to stay with us male chaperons in the same room, which gave us a chance to

share knowledge on how each country differs in the provision of education, among other

interesting topics.

3.3. Programme Activities

The programme was officially started with a flag-raising ceremony on the 14 th of

December 2009. The 5 day programme will be elaborated according to their respective days

and further divided into morning, afternoon and night activities.

3.3.1. Day 1 Activities

Morning (Getting to Know Our Singapore Friends)

Day 1 started very early. The teachers woke up around 5.10 a.m but already the

students were fully awake and rearing to take their showers, and perform their prayers.

After prayers, we waited for 7.30 a.m when we were feted with nasi lemak from uncle

Ben’s catering service, Ben Hassan Caterers. The atmosphere during breakfast was good as

some of the trainers took interest of the students and engaged in warm chats. Then by 8.30

a.m the contingents from two schools arrived. 6 students from Jun Yuan school and 26 from

Pei Hwa joined us in the cafeteria. Even though they all had their breakfast in their schools,

they were sat with the Bruneians who initiated small conversations.

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By 9.00 a.m the students were all gathered in the basketball court where they were

briefed by the trainers and eventually transitioned into a lot of icebreaking activities.

Evidently, the Bruneian students were the more extroverted members as the Singaporeans

were still adapting to the situation with only being there for a mere hour. In some instances,

our students actually performed - in the middle of group circles - their singing talents (e.g

Aerien Ahmad Azizi) and even their joget skills (Dk. Nurul Zawanah).

Around this time it was apparent that they were really up for it and did not want to

disappoint their teachers and their country. They were pushing their confidence level beyond

their comfort zone. There were a few who were still introverted but so were several of the

Singaporeans. Eventually, they all began to cool down and contributed to the grander scheme

of things.

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We had a flag-raising ceremony. A special mention goes to Cikgu Hasnan, who

brought the flag from the Brunei Embassy to be raised alongside the Singapore flag. After the

ceremony, they all went to the canteen and, in groups worked on mahjong paper to come up

with a special motto for their respective team.

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While the students were engaged in what was fast becoming an active session, the

teachers were invited by Miss Carmen to quickly grab a taste of the best ‘bandung’ drink in

Singapore, which was a just few minutes’ walk from the camp. We came back in time to join

the kids in their lunch of ‘nasi ayam’. Soon after, the students were given 10 minutes time to

pack their backpacks and everyone left for the Camelot Center near Changi. We took two

buses, with two teachers in each bus as the students had been mixed and divided into 4 teams.

The journey along the coastal expressway took around 40 minutes. In the bus the students

mingled a bit and so did the teachers.

Afternoon (Camelot Training Centre)

Upon arriving in Camelot we were very impressed with the facilities, and Cikgu Santi

commented that everything was basic yet useful. Since we had 30 minutes to spare, we had

the students performed their ‘Jamak Qasr Takdim’ prayers. The boys all did theirs while only

2 girls, who brought their telekong, were able to perform theirs.

The team building activities started and the students worked in mixed groups

performing a lot of teamwork activities. Around the same time, the teachers were invited by

Michelle to roam around the compound as they briefed us on the facilities available in the

site. We walked to the East coast for 10 minutes and passed by a sailing club centre and also

the SAFRA resort for National Service members, and then moved to the west towards the

Changi village but fell short of arriving there due to its distance.

We came back to witness students still performing their activities. As Cikgu Simah

supervised them, us other three chaperons were invited to discuss about future plans of the

camp over a cup of tea and enjoyed the best view of the compound which overlooked the sea

to Batam.

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We then made our move to join the students in their telematch competition. The

students competed in four teams in a knockout based tournament. It was during this time that

all of the Bruneian students showed great sense of competitiveness.

Special mention goes to Aerien Ahmad Azizi who was by far the fastest sprinter in

the whole camp, Najrien and Eddy who were good sports, Faiz who was very focussed on his

task and showed some good leadership skills, and the girls who surprised us with their sudden

wanting to be involved, including Ummi, Nuraina (who was not feeling well but persisted),

and Zawanah who was very competitive and had her game face on.

Nonetheless, everyone was exceptional, especially when a Singaporean member

slipped and fell on the concrete pavement; a group of our boys (Nabil, Faiz, Aziz, Hazim, and

a few others) ran to provide help. They carried him to. It was a very proud moment for us

teachers seeing 6 of our own boys helping their Singaporean mate. It was a sight to be

remembered.

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Evening (Night Barbeque)

Soon after nightfall, we started our barbeque themed

dinner by starting simple barbeque pits from 2

bricks, an aluminium foil tray, sand and some

charcoal. It was around this time that the students

started mingling. But as the Camelot trainers

commented, there were still pockets of cliques left

that they need to disband.

The students and the teachers enjoyed the barbeque

session. We were dined with satay, squid dipped in

cincalok, ‘otak-otak’, prawns dipped in Carmen's

wonderful marinade, mushrooms, stingrays, corn,

and ‘mee hoon’. We ended at 9.00 a.m and went back to Labrador Camp to be debriefed on

tomorrow’s expectantly strenuous activity.

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3.3.2. Day 2 Activities

Morning (High Elements)

Day 2 marked the first time the students slept through the night alongside

Singaporeans. They woke up early for Subuh prayer and had their breakfast a la Singapore. It

was a complete set of the ‘lontong’ cuisine. Once the students ate they were divided into two

main groups, each having an equal mix of Brunei and Singapore students with the other.

Group 1 went to gather in the basketball court to be briefed by invited nature experts, one of

them being Mr. Sunny, a certified ‘plant plucker’ from MOE (because plucking flora is

illegal). Meanwhile, Group 2 went to gather on the gathering point to be briefed by members

of the Camelot Trainers. According to the programme, Group 1 would go for a nature walk

while Group 2 went to do high elements.

As I was the chaperon for Group 2, I will explain the itinerary of the day based on my

involvements. Group 2 was in line to perform high element activities. Each group was further

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divided into 2 subgroups with the intention being to cover more ground per hour. I supervised

the trapeze jump activity while Omar supervised the absailing actvity. With me were 5

students, Faiz, Nabil, Aziz, Nazurah and Afiqah, who showed tremendous courage in

climbing a 20 foot pole, standing on a platform and jumped into the air to grab a hanging

trapeze pole. Special mention goes to Nazurah and Afiqah who clearly braved themselves out

of their fear of heights as they did it with all smiles. It was great to see all five being able to

complete the tasks. I also jumped the trapeze twice, and then supervised the absailing and

zipline activities then after.

After completing the activities, we then joined group 1 who just came back from their

nature walk to have our lunch. Our lunch was mutton ‘rendang’ with ‘nasi briyani’, ‘acar’,

chicken and its condiments.

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Afternoon (Nature Walk)

After lunch, it was then Omar and my turn to go for the nature walk. Again we were

divided into 2 subgroups and my group followed Mr. Sunny the nature guide. We walked a

good 1 km from the Labrador Camp to the Hortpark located around Bukit Candu, where

along the way, Sunny introduced to us roadside plants and their benefits. We went to

Hortpark and walked up a winding trail, occasionally stopping to talk about flowers and trees.

When Mr. Sunny introduced to us the ‘Simpur’ plant, Aziz stepped up to explain what the

‘simpur’ plant meant to Bruneians. We moved from one plant to the other, talking about their

benefits. At times the students were taught on edible plants and prompted to taste them, such

as eating hibiscus and sea almonds, and the sweet tasting hairy berries, which became big hit

with the students that they collected a lot to bring back to camp.

We moved up 4 to 5 tiers of long winding trail, climbed concrete stairs and then

walked along an overhead wooden canopy. From there we could see the views around Bukit

Candu. Further up, near the apex of the hill, we arrived at a looking point where we could see

the islands nearby. And finally we ended in a heritage museum in memory of Leftenan

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Adnan, his soldiers and the stories of how they withstood the Japanese army, as told by Mr.

Sunny.

Evening (Midnight Rendezvous)

After dinner we were set to travel for the Midnight Rendezvous. Divided into two

buses, our group's guide was Mr. Victor who described to us the many buildings around

Singapore and the history of Singapore throughout our bus ride. We alighted across City Hall

building and walked the stretch of the underground tunnels from Singapore's tallest hotel

(The Swiss Hotel) to the Esplanade Theater. Our bus took a slow tour past the Orchard Road

area and ended up in Clarke Quay where we embarked on a boat cruise along the Singapore

river in an old wooden boat. We went to view the Esplanade from the picturesque sight off

the bay, the many governmental buildings such as the parliament, the bridges and sculptures

found along the river. The Merlion fountain statue was the highlight of the cruise.

We left Clarke Quay area and made our move to Jalan Kayu, where Thasevi

Restaurant was located. Thasevi Restaurant is an Indian restaurant famous for its unique ‘roti

prata’ dish. It was definitely a savoury dish unlike those found in Brunei. After satiating our

hunger, we then moved on to what the trainers regard as ‘retail therapy’. Mustaffa Centre

became our next stop and was highly anticipated by the Bruneian students. Upon arriving, it

was heart warming to witness Singaporean students helping out their Bruneian friends in

picking out souvenirs for family back home. Students came out of the shopping center with

bags of souvenirs.

Our penultimate stop brought us to Jurong Hill, and climbed up three levels of

spiralling incline to reach the top of its lookout tour that overlooked Jurong. The serenity of

the night was quite atypical of Singapore and was somehow quite familiar to Brunei’s.

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The midnight rendezvous finally and literally carried us to the Jurong Fisheries

Centre. Being one of Singapore’s main source of food supply, it had extra tight security that

prohibited any cameras. Nonetheless, the short tour into the centre’s belly alone was a

privilege. The centre put the contingents directly into the heart of fish mongering, and the

many fresh saltwater creatures on display were tantalising. Even the Singaporeans bought

several boxes of shrimps for their consumption.

Ultimately, the midnight rendezvous was a remarkably interesting experience both for

the Bruneians and Singaporeans. The programme made possible access to sights and

situations where a typical trip to Singapore would never provide. Our tour ended around 4.00

a.m in the early hours of morning. Fittingly, the officers gave the students and teachers a

good amount of rest as Day 3 activity was scheduled close to midday.

3.3.3. Day 3 Activities

Morning – Afternoon (Dragon boat)

Unlike the previous days, Day 3 started relatively late into the morning as there was

only to be one main activity. The weather further casted doubt on whether it was feasible to

be performed. Nonetheless, we tried our luck and travelled to Kallang River because our

lunch was to be served there.

Upon arriving at the Kallang Water

Sports Centre, we were served fish

fillet and rice for lunch. While

resting, we attentively listened to a

briefing by a representative of the

Singapore Dragon Boat

Association. It was determined that

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we would be separated into four dragon boats. Since all of the students would be involved in

rowing, I took the initiative to record the whole experience. All the students and chaperons

were fitted with life-vests and were equipped with paddles. Everyone stepped into their

respective boats and slowly embarked from the pier.

The dragon boat pilot took the

helm and briefed us on the

theoretical approach of dragon boat

motion. Consequently we were all

taught to paddle and not long after

were paddling tremendously well

along the river. In the distance, the

other boats were also excelling in

their training. We rowed a good

few kilometres and almost reached the Singapore Flyer Carousel, only to be hindered by a

looming thunderstorm. We decided to double back but the storm already caught us. In the

midst of heavy rain, we raced one another on the way back to the pier. It was an exhilarating

experience yet we had to scramble out of the open water due to the creeping lightning strikes.

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As a precautionary measure, the trainers all ushered us to dry ourselves under the

shelter of the Kallang Water Sports Centre. Eventually the lightning strikes subsided but the

rain still did not abate. We then decided to head back to our buses, some still quite drenched

from the rain. On the way back, our buses were entertained by the Camelot trainers and their

comedic sing-alongs – a skill which I personally thought was quite effective in nurturing

students’ interest in teamwork.

Evening (Downtown Rendezvous Amazing Race Briefing)

After dinner, we intently listened to a very detailed briefing on Day 4’s activity,

which was an Amazing Race-esque rendezvous in downtown Singapore. In the briefing, we

were given maps and guides of Singapore, and were informed that we would be navigating

our way through Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam, albeit groups are only required

to go to at least two destinations. The destinations were very fitting seeing that each represent

a culture that entwines with multinational Singapore.

Due to the demanding tribulations for the past 2 days and the upcoming downtown

rendezvous which was expected to span beyond 8 hours, we were given an early rest. Lights

were out by 10.30 p.m, which was 2 hours earlier than usual. However, the Brunei and

Singapore teachers were offered a trip to Mount Faber. Leading the night excursion was

Cikgu Hasnan of MOE and Mr. Alan of Camelot. We drove up Mount Faber which was

several minutes drive from camp. We were in awe of the 360 degrees panoramic view that

the peak of Mount Faber offered. Its peak was also adorned with decorated flooring which

points towards significant locations throughout the world, and finding ‘Brunei’ engraved on

one side of its floor was an added bonus to what was a very moving night, as the chaperons

became quite acquainted with the Singapore officers.

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3.3.4. Day 4 Activities

Morning and Afternoon (Downtown Rendezvous)

Day 4 started with the division of students and chaperons into four groups. Each

group was assisted by one Camelot trainer and one chaperon. My group was guided by

Camelot trainer Mr. Alvin. His techniques were based on discovery and experiential learning,

whereby he asks questions of the participants in order to elicit options for them to peruse.

That was the highest form of assistance that Mr. Alvin provided, which allowed the students,

especially our Bruneian students, to learn to navigate through a very unfamiliar environment

and transportation culture. Nonetheless, my group performed extremely well, and special

mention goes to Md. Hazim, who automatically took the helm and made analytical decisions.

We started off in Chinatown where we went in search for one of the tour guides for

the day. It didn’t take long to find her, and she promptly brought us into the Buddha Tooth

Relic Temple, and gave us a brief tour of the elements found in the temple. After the temple

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tour, we moved by foot towards the direction of the Urban Development Authority Building.

Prior to reaching there, we passed by several shop-houses reminiscent of those in Brunei, and

took a quick stop in a calligraphy shop where each student was given a custom-made fan with

one’s name written on it in calligraphy. In the Urban Development Authority Building, we

were welcomed by visually informative exhibitions as well as the central exhibit of the

building, a small-scale 3-D map of Singapore.

It didn’t take long before the students were tested on their composure. The group got

lost whilst searching for the Pearl Center building, but it took merely 10 minutes of map

reading to find the building itself, a feat that was commended by Mr. Alvin, who kept

information that would reveal these landmarks to him alone. It was an effective method of

maturing students’ capacity in working under pressure.

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Our next stop was at Kampong Glam, where we were greeted by Mr. Victor, our

second tour guide. The students were introduced to the historical background of the area and

were taken for a tour in the most prominent mosque in Kampong Glam. The tour continued

with Mr. Victor presenting students with an array of traditional Malay children games,

including ‘gasing’ (top) and ‘simban’. Several of the students bought these traditional games

for souvenirs.

Due to the light drizzle and the lack of shade, the tour was hastened to escape the

creeping rainclouds. The students made their way to the nearest MRT station, a mean of

transportation that they began to familiarise with during the start of the amazing race. We

alighted from the MRT and continued our journey by bus and eventually by foot back to

Labrador Camp.

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Evening (Campire Night)

The evening would bear witness to one of the most emotional sessions of the

programme. After dinner, the Brunei students quickly gathered in the lounge room and

practiced for one final time their dance routine, while the Singapore officers prepared the

Labrador Camp hall for the campfire night.

We chaperons were then ushered to attend the ceremony. We were cordially greeted

by the officers and their amazing attempt in creating a very warm atmosphere. Tea candles lit

the subdued lighting and the stage was set for a night to remember.

As the chief chaperon, I was invited to ‘co-ignite’ the campfire with the Mr. Tan

Heng Yang, whom I spoke informally with earlier. We kindled the flame and thus marked the

initiation of the campfire night. Mr. Tan then proceeded to presenting a speech regarding the

camp and continued with presenting the Brunei contingent with a token of appreciation. To

repay their gratitude, I took the liberty to present an impromptu speech myself, highlighting

the integral bonds that have been made, the cultures that had been shared and, most

paramount, the hospitality that had been presented towards the Brunei contingent. I also

presented a token of appreciation, on behalf of the International Unit, MOE, to Mr. Tan.

Before dinner, the attendees were first entertained by what I personally thought was

an impeccable cultural dance performance by the Brunei team, followed by a very moving

singing performance by the Singapore team. Already emotions were rampant, as students

both Bruneians and Singaporeans enjoyed their dinner under the nuance that it would be their

last night together.

After dinner, the Camelot trainers organised quite comical activities, which included a

dancing competition. Special mention goes to our male student Najrien who danced his was

to being the winner of the contest. As an observer of these students, we the chaperons

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definitely saw a remarkable change in persona in all the students that we trained. It was

around this moment that we felt pride in what the students had achieved.

The night continued with a surprise call for the Brunei chaperons to perform. We

conceded and made our way to the stage, and belted out a song requested by the crowd.

Moments after, we called the students on stage to present the Singaporeans with the official

camp song. One last song which left a permanent impression was sung by our students,

entitled ‘Tentang Kita’, which were aptly worded in tandem to the 5 days experience the

students had. It was there and then that students, and the Camelot trainers who somehow

became attached, shed tears.

I was privileged to have been given the chance to talk with Mr. Alan and Mr. Hasnan

for one final night. They themselves were taken by surprise as to how attached the Camelot

trainers had become with the students. As Mr. Alan said, and I quote, “In all my years, I have

never seen my trainers and students cry this much. It is good indicator that the programme

has successfully built relations among them”. I duly agreed with his statement and it was a

most apposite summary of what had transpired.

3.4. Return Flight to Brunei

The last day was a day of mixed emotions. Everyone gathered in the cafeteria to have

our breakfast. The trainers looked quite dishevelled with what was imminent. The Brunei

students were engaged in jokes and small chats to make use of the quickly fleeting time. The

Singaporean students decided to send off the Brunei contingent in the airport. Prior to loading

our luggage, the students distributed their souvenirs to one another.

The bus trip to Changi airport was one of the most emotionally excruciating rides any

of the students would have been on.

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Upon our arrival in Changi Airport, we chaperons quickly checked-in our baggage

and claim our boarding passes. Our final hour was spent in bidding our last farewell. I

stepped forward to initiate the passing of school pennants to both the Camelot trainer leader

and the MOE Singapore representative. When it was time to leave, virtually everyone shed

tears of sadness. The Brunei students took one final glance before entering the terminal. It

was a fond farewell. A proper farewell. Ultimately, it was a farewell that none wanted to

have, but circumstances prevailed. The students bade their farewell to the land that is

Singapore, and touched down 2 hours later embraced by their loved ones in Brunei. We were

greeted by Cikgu Hjh Ainah from the International Unit, who constantly kept in touch with us

throughout the programme.

4. WHAT THE TEAM HAS ATTAINED FROM THE PROGRAMME

The benefits and advantages attained from this programme would be a long list to

mention. In spirit of a concise report, I will elaborate on five elements that the Brunei

contingent gained from the trip.

4.1 Acquaintances

Collectively, the Brunei contingent made meaningful bonds with our Singapore

counterparts. The chaperons were able to create liaising channels with Singapore MOE and

the Camelot trainers for future cooperating prospects, whilst the students themselves attained

everlasting friendship that to this day has transitioned into the internet realm. From within the

Brunei contingent, acquaintances were also formed among the students and chaperons, as is

the case with the officers from the International Unit, MOE.

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4.2 Experience

It is inarguably true that the experience attained during the programme was one that

cannot be replicated in one’s lifetime if given the opportunity. Therefore, it is fitting to

conclude that the programme gave a once in a lifetime experience for all that was involved in

the Brunei contingent. The memories that the contingent shared from a very condensed

itinerary are vivid colours of what the slang term ‘emotional rollercoaster’ would portray. It

was indeed emotional memories that were painted throughout the time spent among the

Singaporeans.

Furthermore, an experience of sight, sounds and scents bombard the senses constantly

during our stay. The picturesque views of Singapore’s skyline, night lights and pockets of

greenery were mere specks of what the island has to offer. In addition, the experience of

doing things, such as high elements and dragon boat racing, is quite difficult to replicate back

home.

4.3 Knowledge

Evidently, cultures of each country were shared in passing, while Singapore offered a

hands-on discovery of their culture due to them playing host for 2009. However, if one looks

before the camping programme, knowledge has been delivered to students the moment they

took into being involved in the pre-camp activities.

During the early days of pre-camp activities, students were quite introverted and

lacked motivation in striking up a conversation. A few days into the pre-camp sessions,

students gradually gained confidence in their teamwork and a few developed leadership traits.

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In Singapore, these traits were apparent enough not to push back the Singaporeans

from mingling with the Brunei contingent, as the Brunei students initiated a lot of self-

introduction. As the programme progressed, the students got out of their comfort zone and

never looked back. They were able to perform impromptu and were quite obedient and

diligent in the processes of acquiring new knowledge.

With regards to the chaperons, we have learnt a rich amount of knowledge on the

running of a camp programme in Singapore. We learnt of the infrastructure of their education

system and the learning culture that embodies a successful education approach. In particular,

the emphasis on outward bound activities inspired us to test these theories, as we witnessed

students who went through these routines and came out with a sense of positive bravado and

pizzazz atypical of Bruneian students.

From primary levels, students were already required to be proficient swimmers, at

least have lived through an outward bound camping experience, and have performed all the

high elements activities. Such was the strength of implementing rigorous outdoor activities.

The chaperons eventually developed a deep understanding of how Singapore students were,

using an analogy, thrown into the sharks to fend for themselves – which is a microcosm of

today’s global society. We were greatly inspired.

5. RECOMMENDATIONS

As a proviso, it would be capricious on our part to recommend changes on the 2009 camping

programme as it was wholly prepared by the Singapore MOE. Furthermore, considering that

it was a well organised and richly condensed programme, the benefits that it gave far

outweighed any shortcomings that it might have had.

However, we were deeply inspired by the activities that transpired during the programme and

would suggest several of these components be integrated into our nation-based camp. Below

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are several recommendations that we believe would contribute immensely to the betterment

of students.

5.1 An Outward Bound Unit

The programme itself utilised the aid of officers from the Singapore Outward Bound Unit, in

addition to outsourcing channels by bringing in a certified and highly regarded Training

Team, the Camelot Trainers.

Brunei is currently missing a stand-alone training team that are certified in a diverse array of

life skills, from high ropes to first aid, from water sports mastery to nature guides. If we

perchance have these individuals in our disposal, it is high time that they are incorporated

into the many camping schemes that we have, in addition to deploying them in appropriate

student exchange programmes.

The discussions with the trainers also brought to light how it would be possible to have local

Bruneians trained and certified in organising high elements and water elements. A suggestion

is to have 10 local Bruneians sent for training, so they in turn can train others in Brunei once

they have achieved mastery of these crafts.

5.2 A Camping Centre

Although we have sporadic areas that can be considered camping sites, there is yet

one in Brunei that is a fully fledged camp centres; a school that is exclusively for camping.

Singapore has at least 5 centres. Labrador itself was transformed from an unused school,

while the Changi Camp Centre was built for the sole purpose of camping.

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The amenities were provided exclusively for a great camping experience and team

building training. The Changi Camp Centre, for example, provides hundreds of canoes and

dozens of dragonboats, at least 3 rock climbing walls built onto the building walls, a

collection of low ropes and high ropes elements, and several open air chalets for a supervised

camping atmosphere. As mentioned earlier, Singapore students start their camping experience

from primary level.

5.3 A Dossier of Interesting Activities

From the conversation that we had with the Singapore officers who came to Brunei in

2008, they were quite pleased with several activities that were scheduled for them, which

included the boat trip around Kampong Ayer and the paddy plating in Wasan. Both activities

should become main attractions of next year’s programme as well as any camping

programme that would indulge such interest.

Likewise, as one of the chaperons for 2009, I was quite pleased to be in the midnight

tour. Personally, visiting the many variants of the island, visiting Jurong Fisheries and touring

through the crowds of shoppers were highlights of my trip. It therefore put us in an exciting

project of creating an equally interesting tour route throughout Brunei. Unlike normal tourist

attraction routes, the route proposed for 2010 would include the other side of Brunei that is

rarely accessible to tourists. To date, the 2009 chaperons are planning to draft an itinerary for

this year, including drafting a tour route that would represent Brunei in its many facets of

splendour.

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6. CONCLUSION

The 2009 Singapore Brunei Student Leaders Adventure Camp was indeed a

successful programme. Success can be measured by the lack of any flaws or shortcomings,

the smooth sailing of the activities and the amount of confidence, knowledge and leadership

traits that the students have gained.

The hospitality given by our Singaporean counterparts were beyond expectations. The

activities that were provided for us are worthy to be coined as once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The bonds that were made have entwined both countries closer. All this could not be possible

without the presence of everyone involved.

I, on behalf of the Brunei contingent, would like to take this opportunity in expressing

our gratitude to officers of the International Unit, MOE, in particular Cikgu Hjh. Ainah, who

liaised with us and others who were involved in the background processes, who remained in

contact throughout the our stay in Singapore, and to have granted this opportunity for all the

participants.

Our heartfelt thanks go to our sponsors from DST Sdn. Bhd., Alimen Enterprise and

Narcotics Control Bureau for the travelling items that they contributed.

Last but not least, we would like to commend on the intricate preparations and

processes that were undertaken by MOE Singapore and Camelot Trainers. In essence of the

programme, may the bonds that have been created strengthen for many years to come.

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APPENDIX A

Students Name List

1 Mohd Faiz Hidayat bin Suhaini (AAC)

2 Muhd Aziz Azizan bin Mat Dayang (SMSUA)

3 Fadyl Bahrin @Adyl bin Ellmi (MS)

4 Ak Muhd Eddy Muqri bin Pg Mazalan (SMJA)

5 Aerien Ahmad Azizi bin Sahri (SM Sharif Ali)

6 Muhd Hazim bin Awg Haji Zakaria (SMSAB)

7 Khairul Izzul bin Zaini (SMSA)

8 Najrien bin Juani (SM RIPAS)

9 Mohd Nabil Baihaqy bin Mohd Suwarso (SMPW)

10 Wan Raifuddin bin Wan Sabli (SMPAPHRSB)

11 Ismah Nur Afifah binti Idris (MS)

12 Siti Nur Hamizah Al Ghazi Saufi binti Hj Md Bakar (SMSUA)

13 Nazurah binti Haji Mahli (SMPAPHM)

14 Nur’ Amalina bte Yunos (SMPDSM)

15 Ummi Wahb binti Rayali (AAC)

16 Dyg Siti Nur Afiqah Izzati binti Awg Idris (SMPAPHM)

17 Naqiyyah Hana Quratu’ain binti Abd Ghani (SMJA)

18 Dk Nurul Zawanah binti Pg Haji Omar (SM Sharif Ali)

19 Nuraina Aafiqah binti Mohd Zain (STPRI)

20 Nadiah binti Haji Hassan (SMPAPHRSB)

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APPENDIX B

A re-designed logo for the programme, as

utilised in logbooks and nametags

A sample of the official nametag for the

male participants. The nametag was worn

throughout the programme in Singapore

and encased in a waterproof tag holder. The

nametag contains a lot of data, which

include among others, the Buddy Group for

this student (A), the students’ number in the

group (03), his nickname and fullname, his

school and his group chaperon’s phone

number (881523). The tag colour is

bordered blue for males, red for females and

black for chaperons.

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APPENDIX C

Prepared Pre-Camp Itinerary

DATE/DAY TIME ACTIVITY VENUE

17th Nov 2009 2:30-4:30 pmThe Signing of Agreement

SOASC Auditorium

22nd Nov 2009 9:00-11:30 am Introductory Briefing SOASC Gymnasium

29th Nov 2009 9:00-11:30 am Cultural Dance and SingingPractice

SOASC Gymnasium

2nd Dec 2009 9:00am-12:30pm Cultural Dance and Singing Practice

SOASC Gymnasium

5th Dec 2009 9:00am-12:30pm Cultural Dance and SingingPractice

SOASC Gymnasium

7th Dec 2009 9:00am-12:30pm Youth Leadership Programme organised by the Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council

SOASC Gymnasium

9th Dec 2009 8:00am-11:30am Fitness Test SOASC Gymnasiumand Outdoor Track

10th Dec 2009 8:00am-12:30pm Jama' Prayer Talk SOASC Auditorium

11th Dec 2009 8:00am-4:00pm Day Camp Seri Kenangan Beach

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APPENDIX D

Students off to S'pore for leadership camp

Ak Hj Shaiffadzillah Pg Hj Omarali (R), head of the contingent, talking to the students prior to their departure to attend the 3rd Singapore-Brunei Leaders Adventure Camp. Picture: BT/Hana Roslan

HANA ROSLAN

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Monday, December 14, 2009

A DELEGATION of students and teachers set off to the Republic of Singapore for a four-day adventure

yesterday afternoon.

Some 20 students and four teachers who dressed in similar blue-collared shirts were ready to attend the

Third Singapore-Brunei Leaders Adventure Camp 2009.

Head of the contingent, Ak Hj Shaiffadzillah Pg Hj Omarali, 28, a teacher from Pengiran Anak Puteri Hjh

Masna Secondary School (PAP Hjh Masna), when met at the Brunei International Airport said that the

delegation was looking forward to the activities as well as the sharing sessions to come.

An active member of the adventure club in the school, he said that exposing the students to the adventure

club trained them to become leaders and nurtured other characteristics that they might not find in academic

pursuits.

"They will be more confident in public speaking, independent and courageous when performing on stage,

and most importantly develop a concern for nature," he said.

Hj Shaiffadzillah added: "The trend now has more to do with climate change, nature and ecology, and from

what I can see, the youth are very involved in it."

Getting the students to meet with their Singaporean counterparts would also be beneficial as they can share

each others culture. "Singapore is a very conservative country when it comes to littering and cleanliness.

So this would be a good chance to expose the students to a country that prioritises cleanliness and see how

they do it," he said.

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APPENDIX D (continued)

Hj Shaiffadzillah explained that meeting with their peers from Singapore would give a positive impact on

their self-development as Brunie's future leaders.

He added that Singaporeans students were more open-minded to new ideas which would have positive

impact on the students.

"Mingling with the open-minded and approachable Singaporean students would help them to practice their

social skills because Bruneian students can be a bit reserved," he said.

Hj Shaiffadzillah said: "I'm not saying that all Bruneians are like that, it's just that some can be quite shy

and are not aware of maximising their potential and, the whole purpose of going there was to groom them

to be leaders."

Meanwhile, he said that collaborations among neighbouring countries, when it comes to current issues,

such as the environment, is also to be expected. "If we were to get a few more heads in there, we would

have multiple cooperation and the culmination of everything will surely produce outcomes," he said.

Hj Shaiffadzillah went on to say that the knowledge obtained from Singapore will definitely be localised

although there should be awareness of applying the best practices in a more Bruneian context.

"We have to be aware of our context because Brunei is quite unique in such a way that we have a mixture

of influences that stem from religion and culture along with other variables," Hj Shaiffadzillah asserted.

He added: "It might not be necessary toadopt all the practices, but hopefully with the knowledge gained,

the students would be able to produce their own versions of the practices learnt overseas."

The students and teachers will be coming back on December 18.The Brunei Times

Source:

http://www.bt.com.bn/en/news-national/2009/12/14/students-spore-leadership-camp

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APPENDIX E

Binding Ties Through 'Adventure Camp' In Singapore

Written by Azzy Monday, 14 December 2009 08:01

Bandar Seri Begawan - Enchanching standing through the exchange of cultures and traditions, has forged a

lasting friendship between the youths of Brunei and Singapore.

This has been the tradition of the annual Singapore-Brunei Leaders Adventure Camp.

The event is in its third series this year. Twenty students from Brunei will continue the journey that promotes

understanding, collaboration and friendship amongst their Singaporean counterparts in the 3rd Singapore-Brunei

Adventure Camp 2009.

Accompanying the visiting entourage are four selected teachers. The group departed for Singapore yesterday to

begin their remarkable journey from December 14 to 18.

Their pre-scheduled activities include dragon boating, amazing race, log climbing, zip line, visits, telepath,

abseiling, challenge pole, nature walk and performances, among others.

These activities are lined-up with the objectives to promote understanding and bonding between the youths

through various activities involving cross cultural learning, outdoor adventure, team-building games and live-in

experiences whilst educating the students on the need to conserve the natural environment to preserve its

biodiversity.

It also serves to educate them on the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of one's country and building

leadership skills while learning to work as a team and improve their problem solving skills. -- Courtesy of Borneo

Bulletin

Source:

http://www.brudirect.com/index.php/2009121412311/Local-News/binding-ties-through-

adventure-camp-in-singapore.html

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