Sarawak: The Malaysian Scouts Federation (PPM) continues to strengthen its role in shaping the character and leadership of youth in Sabah and Sarawak through the launch of Scout Groups under the Community-Based Scouting (CBS) programme in Sarawak. National Chief Scout, Maj Gen (Rtd) Datuk Prof Dr Mohd Zin Bidin, emphasized the importance of making the scouting movement more inclusive and responsive to local community needs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the CBS approach enables the expansion of scouting beyond traditional school settings, aiming to reach more youths by integrating into villages, residential areas, and local communities. This shift is intended to make scouting activities more accessible and aligned with societal needs, as highlighted by Mohd Zin during the programme's launch.

The CBS initiative is particularly relevant in Sarawak, where the geographical landscape and diverse communities present unique challenges. Mohd Zin noted that the programme offers opportunities for youths from various backgrounds to participate in scouting, promoting character development, discipline, and leadership skills.

PPM is also aiming to boost its membership numbers, targeting an increase from the current 700,000 to 1 million members in the coming years. This growth is expected to be driven significantly by the nationwide rollout of the CBS initiative.

The official launch of the programme was attended by Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom. Other notable attendees included the President of the Sarawak Scout Council, Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom, Tanjung Batu State Assemblyman Johnny Pang Leong Ming, and Deputy President of the National Scout Council, Datuk Ahmad Shazilly Ismail Bakti.