TWO distinguished scout leaders from Persekutuan Pengakap Malaysia (Penang) have brought pride to the state after being conferred the prestigious “International Friendship Medal” by the Scouts of Taiwan.
Chew Kok Rui, Assistant State Commissioner (Corporate Communications & Media), and Lau Wei Seng, Honorary Major and Bukit Mertajam District Scout Council chairman, received the accolade in recognition of their outstanding dedication to promoting unity, service, and international cooperation within the Scout movement across the Asia-Pacific region.
The award ceremony was held in Hsinchu and officiated by Kao Hung-an, who is also the Hsinchu Scout Association president. The honour underscores the recipients’ significant contributions in strengthening bilateral ties, advancing international exchange programmes, and fostering deeper cultural understanding between Malaysia and Taiwan’s scouting communities.
In his acceptance speech, Chew conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the recognition.
“I am deeply grateful to the Scouts of Taiwan and the Hsinchu Scout Association for the trust and honour bestowed upon us. This recognition serves as a strong motivation for us to continue building meaningful connections through scouting,” he said.
He added that the collaboration between both parties is expected to grow further through initiatives such as youth leadership training programmes, international camps, environmental conservation efforts, and community service projects.
“We are confident that this friendship will continue to flourish, creating more opportunities for our youths to engage, learn, and lead on a global stage,” he said.
Also present at the ceremony were Scouts of Taiwan secretary-general Yang Yong-Chin, Hsinchu City Education Department director Lin Li-Sheng, Hsinchu Scout Association board member Cheng Cheng-Chien, and the Sun Fun Scout Group, Hsinchu Chief Scout Leader Chiu Yi-Ching.
The recognition marks yet another milestone for Penang’s scouting fraternity, reflecting its continued commitment to nurturing leadership, unity, and global camaraderie among youths.