BOY SCOUTS OF SINGAPORE

Scouting began informally about 1908 when some boys formed their own patrols. Officially, Scouting in Singapore began in 1910 with its first Scout Troop of 30 boys sponsored by the YMCA, whose building also served as Scout HQ. Mr. Frank Cooper Sands, a trained Scouter from England, is recognized as the founder of Scouting in Singapore. Sea Scouting started about the same time.

In 1916, a younger boy program was organized called the Wolf Cubs. This was followed in 1919, by the formation of the first Malay speaking Scout Troop. Scouting grew rapidly among the Malay youth. Scouting from Singapore spread to the mainland of the Malay Peninsula. Frank Cooper Sands became the Chief Commissioner of the Scout Branch Association, Comprising of the British Crown Colonies.

In 1922, recognizing the importance of Scouting and the extensive role Scouting played in the lives of young people, the schools in Singapore adopted the Scout Program as an extra-curricular activity, resulting in the formation of many school, sponsored troops.

In 1927, Rover Scouts were introduced and in 1938 Sea Scouts were formed.

The effects of World War II were felt in Singapore. Scouts took up positions of responsibility by qualifying as air raid wardens, fire watchers, first aid men and police officers serving bravely in their units until they were disbanded with the fall of Singapore to the occupation forces of the Japanese Army. Under great fear of reprisals, the Scouts met underground and continued to keep the Scouting movement alive. When the war was over, Scouting returned to its normal activity.

In 1959, Singapore was granted self-governing status. This was followed by independence in 1965. The official name of the Scout organization became "Singapore Scout Association".

In 1966, Singapore was admitted into the World Bureau (WOSM) and began its active participation in the Asia Pacific Region.

In 1969, the King Scout/Queen Scout highest rank awards was replaced with the President’s Scout Award to reflect the new changes in the Singapore Scout Association’s status. There is a "highest award" for each section:

Singapore Scouting is divided into 4 areas headed by an Area commissioner. There are a total of 15 districts in these 4 areas. Most Scout groups are sponsored by schools. Extension Scouting also exists for the handicapped members. Singapore has Sea and Air Scouts.

On my honor, I promise to do my best, to do my duty to God and to the Republic of Singapore. To help other people and to keep the Scout Law.

This information was obtained from the Boy Scouts of Singapore web page, WOSM news briefs and information sent to me by Tan Sheau Gang.

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