Alor setar: Scout members play an important role as agents of peace in fostering harmony, unity and humanitarian values within society. Chief Scout of Malaysia Maj Gen Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Zin Bidin emphasized that peace is not a matter of coincidence or inheritance, but must be cultivated through education, values, and ethical leadership.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, there are approximately 300,000 registered Scouts nationwide. In alignment with the peace education principles stressed by the Scout Association of Malaysia (PPM), these Scouts serve as agents of peace within the community. Mohd Zin articulated that peace is more than the absence of conflict or war; it is a continual journey that starts within individuals and is strengthened through human relationships. He shared these insights during the opening of the Peace Education Seminar at the Sultan Abdul Halim Campus of the Malaysia Institute of Teacher Education (IPGM KSAH).
Mohd Zin highlighted that the Scout movement functions as an effective non-formal education platform aimed at developing young people who can manage differences, practice empathy, and uphold justice with wisdom. This development is facilitated through activities such as the patrol system, community service, discipline, cooperation, and mutual respect. He stressed that amid increasing social fragmentation, hatred, misinformation, and global humanitarian crises, peace education should be regarded as a fundamental necessity for human civilization rather than an optional choice.
He further encouraged Scouts at all levels to incorporate peace values into their daily actions, moving beyond conceptual discussions. The seminar, organized by PPM in collaboration with The Prem Rawat Foundation and the National Scout Academy, welcomed around 70 participants from across the country. Attendees included The Prem Rawat Foundation North Pacific regional manager Datin Paduka Dr Santha Kumari Natkunam, Kedah Chief Scout Commissioner Ahmad Din, and National Scout Academy director Assoc Prof Dr Abdul Rashid Mohamad.