Tenderfoot notes scouts 1 THE SCOUT PROMISE On my honor, I promise that I will do my best, To do my duty to Allah and the Country; To help other people at all times and to obey the Scout Law. THE SCOUT LAW 01. 02. 03. 04. 05. 06. 07. 08. 09. 10. A A A A A A A A A A Scout Scout Scout Scout Scout Scout Scout Scout Scout Scout is is is is is is is is is is trustworthy loyal helpful brother to every other scout courteous kind to animals obedient cheerful thrifty clean in thought, word and deed. 1. A Scout is trustworthy If a Scout says “On my honour it is so”, that means that it is so, just as if he had made a most solemn promise. Similarly, if a Scouter says to a Scout, “I trust you on your honour to do this”, the Scout is bound to carry out the order to the very best of his ability, and to let nothing interfere with his doing so. If a Scout were to break his honour by telling a lie, or by not carrying out an order exactly when trusted on his honour to do so, he may be directed to hand over his Scout Badge and never wear it again. He may also be directed to cease to be a Scout. 2. A Scout is loyal A Scout is loyal to his country, his Scouters, his parents, his employers and to those under him. He must stick to them through thick and thin against anyone who is their enemy or who ever talks badly of them. 3. A Scout is helpful A Scout is useful and helpful to others and he is to do his duty before anything else, even though he gives up his own pleasure, or comfort, or safety to do it. When in difficulty to know which of the two things to do, he must ask himself, “Which is my duty?” that is, “Which is best for the people?” – and to do that one. He must Be Prepared at any time to save life, or to help injured persons. And he must try his best to do at least one Good Turn to somebody everyday. 4. A Scout is brother to every other scout A Scout is a friend to all and a brother to all, no matter to what country, class or creed the other may belong. Thus if a Scout meets another Scout, even though a stranger to him, he must speak to him and help him in any way that he can, either to carry out the duty he is then doing, or by giving him food or as far as possible, anything that he may be in want of. A Scout must never be a SNOB. A snob is one who looks down upon another because he is poorer, or who is poor and resents another because he is rich. A Scout accepts the other man as he finds him and makes the best of him. 5. A Scout is courteous That is, he is polite to all – but especially to women and children and old people and invalids, cripples etc. And he must not take any reward for being helpful or courteous. 6. A Scout is kind to animals He should save them as far as possible from pain and should not kill any animal unnecessarily, for it is one of God’s creatures. Killing an animal for food or an animal which is harmful is allowable. 7. A Scout is obedient A Scout obeys to his parents, Patrol leaders and Scout Leaders. Even if he gets an order he does not like he must do as soldiers and sailors do and as he would do for his captains in a football team, he must carry it out all the same because it is his duty; and after he has done it he can come and state any reason against it: but he must carry out the order at once. That is discipline. 2 8. A Scout is cheerful A Scout smiles and whistles under all difficulties. When he gets an order he should obey it cheerily and readily, not in a slow, hang-dog style way. Scouts never grouse at hardship, nor whine at each other, nor grumble when put out, but go on whistling and smiling. When you just miss a ferry, or under any annoying circumstances, you should force yourself to smile at once and then whistle a tune and you will be all right. 9. A Scout is thrifty That is, he saves every laari he can, and puts it into the bank, so that he may have money to keep himself when out of work and thus not make a burden to others, or that he may have money to give away to others when they need it. 10. A Scout is clean in thought, word and deed That is, he looks down upon a silly youth who talks dirt, and he does not let himself give away to temptation either to talk it or to think, or to do anything dirty. A Scout is pure and clean-minded and manly. THE SCOUT SALUTE All members of the scout movement use the same salute. The scout sign is made by raising your right hand to shoulder height, palm to the front, thumb resting on the nail of the little finger and the other fingers upright, pointing upwards. It is both a greeting and a sign of respect. The hand salute is only used when a scout is not carrying his staff and is always made with the right hand. Saluting when carrying a staff is done by bringing the left arm smartly across the body in a horizontal position, the fingers showing the scout sign just touching the staff. The three fingers of the salute remind you of the three parts of the scout promise: 1. To do my duty to Allah and the country 2. To help other people at all times 3. To obey the scout law The thumb and the little finger stand for the bond that ties all scouts together. THE SCOUT SIGN The scout sign is almost the same as the salute, but you should hold your hand at shoulder height. It is used when someone is making or renewing their promise or to make some one understood that you are a member of the scout movement by making the sign and shaking his/ her hand or waving to him/ her. SCOUT HAND SHAKE It happened at the fall of the Kumasi (an African City) the Ashanthi tribal chief approached BP and held out his left hand in friendly greeting. BP offered his right in return, but the chief said “No, in my country the bravest of the brave shake with the left hand”. It was a sign of both trust and respect. (Before worriers shake with their left hand they had to put down their shield). 3 Being Muslims, the scouts of Maldives use right hand as their scout hand shake. He may use the left hand, the international scout handshake at international events. SCOUT MOTTO The scout motto is BE PREPARD, which means you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your duty. Be prepared in mind by having disciplined yourself to be obedient to every order, and also by having thought out beforehand any accident or situation that might occur, so that you know the right thing to do at the right moment and are willing to do it. Be prepared in body by making yourself strong and active and able to do the right thing at the right moment and do it. "B-P" - CHIEF SCOUT OF THE WORLD GROWING UP Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell, known as B-P, was born at 6 Stanhope Street (now 11, Stanhope Terrace) Paddington, London on 22nd February 1857. He was the sixth son and the eighth of ten children of the Reverend Baden Powell, a Professor at Oxford University. The names Robert Stephenson were those of his Godfather, the son of George Stephenson the railway pioneer. His father died when B-P was only three years old and the family were left none too well off. B-P was given his first lessons by his mother and later attended Rose Hill School, Tunbridge Wells, where he gained a scholarship for admittance to Charterhouse School. Charterhouse School was in London when B-P first attended but whilst he was there it moved to Godalming in Surrey, a factor which had great influence later in his life. He was always eager to learn new skills. He played the piano and the violin. He acted - and acted the clown too at times. While at Charterhouse he began to exploit his interest in the arts of scouting and woodcraft. In the woods around the school B-P would hide from his masters as well as catch and cook rabbits, being careful not to let tell-tale smoke give his position away. The holidays were not wasted either. With his brothers he was always in search of adventure. One holiday they made a yachting expedition round the south coast of England. On another they traced the Thames to its source by canoe. In all this Baden-Powell was learning the arts and crafts, which were to prove so useful to him professionally. B-P was certainly not known for his high marks at school, as his end-of-term reports revealed. One records "mathematics - has to all intents given up the study", and another "French - could do well but has become lazy, often sleeps in school". Nevertheless he took an examination for the Army and placed second among several hundred applicants. He was commissioned straight into the 13th Hussars, bypassing the officer training establishments. Later he became their Honorary Colonel. 4 MILITARY LIFE In 1876 he went to India as a young army officer and specialized in scouting, map-making and reconnaissance. His success soon led to his training other soldiers for the work. B-P's methods were unorthodox for those days; small units or patrols working together under one leader, with special recognition for those who did well. For proficiency, B-P awarded his trainees badges resembling the traditional design of the north compass point. Today's universal Scout badge is very similar. Later he was stationed in the Balkans, South Africa and Malta. He returned to Africa to help defend Mafeking during its 217-day siege at the start of the Boer war. It provided crucial tests for B-P's scouting skills. The courage and resourcefulness shown by the boys in the corps of messengers at Mafeking made a lasting impression on him. In turn, his deeds made a lasting impression in England. Returning home in 1903 he found that he had become a national hero. He also found that the small handbook he had written for soldiers ("Aids to Scouting") was being used by youth leaders and teachers all over the country to teach observation and woodcraft. He spoke at meetings and rallies and whilst at a Boys' Brigade gathering he was asked by its Founder, Sir William Smith, to work out a scheme for giving greater variety in the training of boys in good citizenship. BEGINNING OF THE MOVEMENT B-P set to work rewriting "Aids to Scouting", this time for a younger readership. In 1907 he held an experimental camp on Brownsea Island, Poole, Dorset, to try out his ideas. He brought together 22 boys, some from private schools and some from working class homes, and put them into camp under his leadership. The whole world now knows the results of that camp. "Scouting for Boys" was published in 1908 in six fortnightly parts. Sales of the book were tremendous. Boys formed themselves into Scout Patrols to try out ideas. What had been intended as a training aid for existing organizations became the handbook of a new and ultimately worldwide Movement. B-P's great understanding of boys obviously touched something fundamental in the youth of England and worldwide. "Scouting for Boys" has since been translated into more than 35 languages. Without fuss, without ceremony and completely spontaneously boys began to form Scout Troops all over the country. In September 1908 Baden-Powell had set up an office to deal with the large number of enquiries which were pouring in. Scouting spread quickly throughout the British Empire and to other countries until it was established in practically all parts of the world. It was abolished later in countries which became totalitarian (Scouting is essentially democratic and voluntary). He retired from the army in 1910, at the age of 53, on the advice of King Edward VII who suggested that he could now do more valuable service for his country within the Scout Movement. 5 So all his enthusiasm and energy were now directed to the development of Boy Scouting and Girl Guiding. (Girl Guiding had started in 1909 when girls attended the first Scout rally at Crystal Palace in London and asked B-P how they could become Scouts.) He travelled to all parts of the world, wherever he was most needed, to encourage growth and give the inspiration that he alone could give. In 1912 he married Olave Soames who was his constant help and companion in all this work. They had three children (Peter, Heather and Betty). Olave Lady Baden-Powell was later known as World Chief Guide. CHIEF SCOUT OF THE WORLD The first international Scout Jamboree took place at Olympia, London in 1920. At its closing scene B-P was unanimously acclaimed as Chief Scout of the World. Successive International gatherings, whether of Scouts or of leaders proved that this was not an honorary title, but that he was truly regarded by them all as their Chief. The shouts that heralded his arrival, and the silence that fell when he raised his hand, proved beyond any doubt that he had captured the hearts and imaginations of his followers in whatever country they lived. At the third World Jamboree, held in Arrowe Park, Birkenhead, England, the Prince of Wales announced that B-P would be given Peerage by H.M. the King. The news was received with great rejoicing. B-P took the title of Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell. Gilwell Park was the international training Centre he had created for Scout leaders. Scouting was not B-P's only interest. He enjoyed acting, fishing, playing polo and big game hunting. He was a very good artist, working in pencil and water-colours. He also had an interest in sculpting and making home movies. B-P wrote no fewer than 32 books. He received honorary degrees from at least six Universities. In addition, 28 foreign orders and decorations and 19 foreign Scout awards were bestowed upon him. In 1938, suffering from ill-health, B-P returned to Africa, which had meant so much in his life, to live in semi-retirement at Nyeri, Kenya. Even there he found it difficult to curb his energies, and he continued to produce books and sketches. On January 8th, 1941, at 83 years of age, B-P died. He was buried in a simple grave at Nyeri within sight of Mount Kenya. On his head-stone are the words "Robert Baden-Powell, Chief Scout of the World" surmounted by the Boy Scout and Girl Guide Badges. 6 Lady Olave Baden-Powell carried on his work, promoting Scouting and Girl Guiding around the world until her death in 1977. She is buried alongside Lord Baden-Powell at Nyeri. HISTORY OF SCOUTING IN MALDIVES Scouting began in Maldives 19th Shawal 1375 H, 30th May 1956. This date the day Scouting was registered in the Government of Maldives. And the patron of Scouting was then the Prime Minister Sumul Ameer Ibrahim Famuladheri Kilegefaan and the Scout Commissioner was Sahibul Saadha Ibrahim Nasir and the Chief Scout was Wazeerul Maarif (Minister of Education) Hon. Ibrahim Shihab and the Scout Master was Bandhu Mohamed Kalefanu. This information is recorded in a book called “Vihivana Sathaa ah Balailun” in the Historical and Linguistic Research Center. Scouting was further developed when Maldivian Education system was made in to English Medium at Majeediyya School and the First commissioner in this error was Mr. Hassan Ali Didi. 1961 In May 1961, Cub Scouting, a natural growth point of this activity began at Majeediyya School under the leadership of the Principal Mr. J.V.Hill and with the support of Mr. Umar Zahir then the Headmaster who supported the School academic and Co-curricular activities from the bottom of his heart. The Cub leader was Mrs. P. George, one of the pioneering English medium teachers, started the first Cub Scout Pack with 18 children. During the same year in October, the Junior Scout section of the Group came into being. A Scout Troop was formed. 1963 Scouting in Maldives received United Kingdoms recognition when the Scout Group of Majeediyya School was registered as the First Male' Scout Group at the Imperial Scout Headquarters, London, by Mr. C. Dymoke Green, Commonwealth Scout Commissioner. This Registration is however not found in the resent days but a Warrant issued to Warnakulasuriya Wadumestrige Vincent Mendis to be the Scouter of the 1st Majeediyya Group. This Documents Number is D. 38645 dated 25th August 1966. Signed by the United Kingdoms Chief Scout Sir Charles Maclean. At this Period the Chief Scout Commissioner of Maldives was Honourable Mr. Ahamed Zaki. 26th February 1963 the first investiture ceremony for English medium for Cub Scouts. 18th June 1963 The second 7 investiture ceremony For Cub Scouts. 18th June 1963 The First Investiture for Scouts. 1964 Sea Scouting was introduced at Majeediyya School. 1965 The first historic 4 day camp was held at Hulhule from 28th of April to 1st of May 1965. 1966 First experience of contacting their worldwide brother Scouts by Participating in the Jamboree on the air on 23rd September 1966. On that remarkable day the Chief Scout Commissioner Honorable Mr. Ahamed Zaki personally broadcasted a message. November 19th-25th the Scouts went out to the community under the first chip-a-job week. Subsequently camping and chip-a-job week became annual Scout features. 1966, the strength of the Movement had also increased to 38 cubs and 41 scouts from a mere 18 Cubs in 1961 at Majeediyya School. 1968 The first Maldivian Scout contingent of twelve Sea Scouts participated at the all Ceylon Rover Moot held at Panadura from 17th to 20th August 1968. 1983 Leader Training Programme started by 1980-1988. 26th August 1983 Male’ English School, the first school to begin Scouting after it had functioned at only Majeediyya for over twenty-two years. Subsequently the following two schools started Scouting. 2nd September 1983 Madhrasathul Aliya. 3rd September 1983 Madhrasathul Ahamadiyya. Due to the initial effort made by the Minister of Education and the Chairman of the National Youth Council Honourable Mr. Mohamed Zahir Hussein during late 1983. 1984 28th January 1984 The Maldives Boy Scouts Association was established. The President of the Republic His Excellency Maumoon Abdul Gayoom accepted to be the Chief Scout and became The first Chief Scout of the Republic of Maldives while Madam Gayoom became the first Chief Guide. Honorable Ahmed Shathir, a veteran Scout, then the Minister of State for Religious Affairs was appointed as the new Chief Scout Commissioner. As a result of all these developments, Scouting began to take shape on a systematic pattern governed by the Principles of Scouting. One of the first initiatives actions taken by the newly established Scout Association was to begin a series of training programs for new leaders. The first of these series began in 1984 for the Scout Leaders, and subsequently for the Cub Scout Leaders. 1985 At the same time a serious effort was made in 1985 to introduce leader Training to adults from other atolls with the hope that Scouting could spread to islands other than Male'. An interested Group was taken from among the Teacher Trainees of Institute for Teacher Education and they were given Basic Scout Leader Training. When they were posted at different atolls as teachers, Scout Groups gradually formed at these atolls. Incidentally Scouting spread to the entire Republic covering right from the northern most Haa Alif atoll to the South Most Seenu atoll. 8 1986 It was in early 1986 that Scouting for the first time did spread to the islands other than Male’, and by the end of the year there were over four hundred Scouts in the islands. Chip A Job Collection Rf 23’481.64 These Schools registered at MBSA: Thaa Guraidhoo School, 25th September 1986 as 8th Male’ Scout Group with 32 Scouts and 1 Leader. Madurasathul Ifthitaah Laviyani Naifaru, 25th September 1986 as 9th Male’ with 36 Scouts and 1 Leader. Mauhad Dirasathul Islamiyya (Institute of Islamic Studies), 25th September 1986 as 10th Male’ Scout Group with 32 Scouts and 2 Leaders. Haa Alif Atoll School Horafushi Island, 25th September 1986 as 11th Male’ with 90 Scouts and 2 Leaders. NoonAtoll School Manadhoo Island, 25th September 1986 as 12th Male’ with 32 Scouts and 1 Leader. Gaaf Dhaal AEC Thinadhoo Island, 25th September 1986 as 13th Male’ with 32 Scouts and 1 Leader. Haa Alif Atoll EDC Didhoo Island, 25th September 1986 as 14th Male’ with 31 Scouts and 2 Leaders. Seenu Atoll AEC Hithadhoo Island, 25th September 1986 as 17th Male’ with 36 Scouts and 2 Leaders. The first National Scout Jamboree was held from 20th-23rd September 1986 at Kuda Bandos where nearly three hundred Scouts, two hundred and fifty Cub Scouts and another three hundred Brownies and Girl Guides took part. The Chief Scout Uz. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom attended the Jamboree and addressed the participants on 23rd September. 1987 1987 Chip A Job Collection Rf 29’969.16 These Schools registered at MBSA: Thaa Atoll AEC Thimarafushi Island, 25th January 1987 as 18th Male’ with 20 Scouts and 1 Leader. Shaviyani Atoll Kandhitheemu Island, 25th January 1987 as 19th Male’ with 72 Scouts and 2 Leaders. Shaviyani Atoll AEC Komandoo Island, 4th March 1987 as 20th Male’ with 36 Scouts and 2 Leaders. Gaaf Alif Atoll AEC Villingili Island, 9th March 1987 as 21st Male’ with 72 Cub Scouts and 2 Leaders. Gaviyani Atoll AEC Fuwahmulak Island, 9th March 1987 as 22nd Male’ with 72 Scouts and 2 Leaders. Gaaf Alif Atoll Kolamaafushi Island, 10th March 1987 as 23rd Male’ with 64 Cub Scouts and 2 Leaders. Gaaf Dhaal Atoll Gadhoo Island, 24th March 1987 as 24th Male’ with 36 Cub Scouts and 1 Leader. Kaaf Atoll Kaashidhoo Island, 24th March 1987 as 25th Male’ with 36 Cub Scouts and 2 Leaders. Laamu Atoll Maibaidhoo Island, 24th March 1987 as 26th Male’ with 32 Scouts and 2 Leaders. Baa Atoll Dharawandhoo Island, 15th April 1987 as 27th Male’ with 36 Cub Scouts and 2 Leaders. Vaavu Atoll Fulidhoo Island, 15th April 1987 as 28th Male’ Scout Group with 18 Scouts and 2 Leaders. Faafu Atoll Feeali Island, 24th March 1987 as 29th Male’ Scout Group with 18 Scouts and 1 Leader. Laamu Atoll AEC Fonadhoo Island, 13th June 1987 as 30th Male’ with 37 Cub Scouts and 2 Leaders. Laviyani Atoll AEC Hinnawaru Island, 29th June 1987 as 31st Male’ with 36 Cub Scouts, 40 Scouts 1 Cub Leader and 2 Scout Leaders. Dhaal Atoll AEC Kuda Huwadhoo Island, 1st August 1987 as 32nd Male’ with 22 Scouts and 1 Scout Leader. Alif Atoll AEC Mahibadhoo Island, 9th August 1987 as 33rd Male’ with 36 Cub Scouts, 1 Cub Leader. Baa Atoll AEC Eidhafushi Island, 1st October 1987 as 34th Male’ with 36 Cub Scouts, 1 Cub Leader. 1988 1988 Chip A Job Collection Rf 35’634.39 Second Scout Jamboree – Kuda Bandos September 1988. First Inter-School Scout Competition was held in Male', 23rd June 1988. The first Advance Unit Leaders Training Course (AULTC) was in August 1988. The World Bureau Asia Pacific Region Training Team conducted this course at Kuda Bandos. First Service Scout Camp 15th Male’ Youth Council at Kaaf Gulhi 11-14 October 1988. 9 First Service Scout Investiture at Feydhoo Finolhu, 40th Male’ Youth Council. Haa Dhaal Atoll AEC Kuludhufushi Island, 1st March 1988 as 35th Male’ with 36 Cub Scouts, 3 Cub Leaders. Vaavu Atoll AEC Felidhoo Island, 21st May 1988 as 36th Male’ with 22 Cub Scouts, 28 Scouts and 1 Leader. 1989 13 New Scout Groups were Registered taking the total Scout Groups to 55, 13 in Male’ the Capital Island and 42 in the Atolls. Patrol Leaders Training Camp (15-17 March 1989) Kuda Bandos. First Cub Scout Competition held at Jamaluddeen School, 30th March. 17 April 1989 Campfire in honour of Pakistan Chief Commissioner Rtd Justice Gaus Ali Saah at Jamaluddeen School. 16th Asia Pacific Regional Scout Conference Taippei 7-12 September 1989. This is the First Regional or International Conference that Maldives participated. Patrol Leaders Training Course, Kuda Bandos (Island Patrol Leaders Training Camp) 5-7 September 1989. Basic Unit Leader Training Course for the Islands. 1990 Indian National Jamboree Bhopal 3-9 January 1990. First SAARC Jamboree held at Vihara Mahadevi Park, Colombo - Sri Lanka 14-20 February 1990. The Jamboree was declaired open by His Excellency R. Premadasa President and Chief Scout of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. First Campfire Leaders Course 12th May 1990. Cub Scout Basic Unit Leaders Training Course, K. Huraa 3-8 July 1990. First Maldivian to achieve the Wood Badge was Ahmed Imad Mohamed. 16.07.1990 awarded by His Excellency Maumoon Abdul Gayoom at a Ceremony Held at National Youth Council premises. Maldives became a member of the World Scout Movement on 23rd July 1990 at the Paris World Scout Conference. Third National Scout Jamboree, December 1990 at Kafu Huraa. 1991 This Year will mark the 30th Anniversary of Scouting in Maldives. 2nd National Wood Badge Course (AULTC) 8-14 March 1991 at K. Huraa. 12th Asia Pacific Jamboree, 9th National Jamboree BSP Makiling Philippines 22-28th April 1991. Second Inter School Cub Scout Competition Thajuddeen School Friday 12th July 1991. 10 1992 4th National Jamboree at Kaafu Villingili. 1993 4th -8th August 1993. First Asia Pacific ECO Camp, Kuju, Japan. 1994 Sad demise of Chief Commissioner Hon. Ahmed Shathir, July. Appointment of Hon. Mr. Ismail Shafeeu, Minister of Transport and Communication as the President of the Scout Council. 1995 Chief Scout HE. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom was officially presented with the National Scarf at the Ceremony held at the Presidents office to mark the Scout Membership day and Awarding Ceremony. Longest Served Chief Commissioner the Late Hon. Ahmed Shathir was awarded the Silver Tuna - The Highest Scouter Rank in Maldives. Scouter Ahmed Shiran Was Awarded the Silver Crescent for Bravery. Assistant Chief Commissioner for Training and Programme Scouter Ahmed Imad was awarded a Meritorious Award the Bronze Coconut. The Minister of Education Dr. Mohamed Latheef took the Scout Promise and was officially sworn in as a Scout. 5th National Scout Jamboree in Villingili. The 3rd Inter School Cub Scouts Competition was held during the Jamboree, 5 Schools participated: Iskandhar School, Jamaluddeen School, Thajuddeen School, Kalaafanu School, Madhrasathul Ahmadiyya. Kalaafanu won the competition and Iskandhar was the runner-up. Scout Council Atoll Visits to Haa Alif Atoll and Haa Dhall Atoll. Other atolls include: Noon Atoll, Laviyani Atoll, Gaviyani Atoll, Haa Dhaal, and Baa Atoll. 3 Basic Courses was conducted during this year and a total of 194 Leaders underwent training. 1 Patrol Leaders Training Course was conducted. 1 Sixers Training Camp was conducted. 1 Electrical Course with the help of MAA was conducted. 1 Fire Fighter Course was conducted with the Help of MAA. First Aid was provided during the 26th July Independence Celebration. Cub Faire held at Iskandhar School. Nippon Jamboree. 2nd Asia Pacific Comdeca / Bangladesh. 1996 Third Advance Unit Leaders Traning Course ( AULTC) or Wood Badge Course was held at Kaafu Villingili from 24th April to 2nd May. Celebration of 40th anniversary of Asia Pacific Scouting, 23rd July. 11 Basic Unit Leaders Training Course. Camp Fire Leaders Training Course held at Jamaluddeen School. Patrol Leaders Orientation Course was conducted. 1997 18th Asia Pacific & 9th Malaysian National Jamboree 1-8 August 1997. 4th National Cub Scout Competition, 30-31st May. Awarding of the President's Scout Badge for the 1st time. Awarding of 10 years Adult Leaders Long Service Award for the 1st time. 1998 Sixer's Camp '98, Feydhoo Finolhu, 20-21st March. Asia Pacific Programme and Community Development Workshop, Giraavaru, Maldives. Third Scout Competition was held at Kaafu Villingilli, 22-24th May. National Patrol Leaders' Training Camp was held at K. Villingili from 25-28th May. 6th National Scout Jamboree, Kuda Bandos, 7-10th September. The first Cub Scout Rally was held in Male', 9th October. Asia Pacific Regional Scout Conference BP House Hong Kong 26-31 July 1998. Key Note Speaker Dr. Mohamed Latheef Minister of Education, Republic of Maldives. 1999 5th National Cub Scout Competition, 16-17th May. 2000 27th Jan to 1st Feb 2000. The Bharath Scouts and Guides Golden Jubilee Jamboree. Chennai, Tamilnado, India. Maldivian Contingent: 95 members that is 55 Scouts and Scout Leaders plus 40 Guides, Service Guides and Guiders. 26th- 28th August 2000, 4th Interschool Scout Competition at Villingili. 2002 Basic Unit Leaders Training Course at Villingili from 30th August to 2nd September 2002, with 25 Participants. 12 NATIONAL FLAG The national flag of the republic of Maldives is rectangular in form, its width being two-third of its length. The flag comprises of a green rectangle with a crescent in the centre and surrounded by a red border. The width of the red border is one-fourth of the width of the flag. The width of the green rectangle is half of the width of the flag while its length is two-thirds of the length of the flag. The radii of both curvatures of the crescent are one third of the width of the green rectangle. They are drawn from two points on the centre line across the length of the green rectangle, the first point being 9/16th and the second 5/8th of the length, measured from the side nearer to the staff. When the flag is hoisted the curvature of crescent should face outward. The Red Boarder symbolizes the blood of the national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the independence and sovereignty of the nation. The Green Rectangle denotes life, progress and prosperity. The White Crescent represents the Islamic faith of the nation. Earlier, Maldivian flag had a black and white strip on the hoist side. This strip containing black and white oblique stripes was withdrawn on 26th September 1965 (1 Jumadhal A’akhira 1385). The colour codes for the national flag are, RED - British Admiralty Colour Code No. T1144 for Nylon worsted bunting and No. T818A for other bunting, WHITE - British Admiralty Colour Code No. T1145 for Nylon worsted bunting and No. T819 for other bunting, GREEN - British Admiralty Colour Code No. T1143 for Nylon worsted bunting and No. T817 for other bunting. NATIONAL ANTHEM "Qawmee mi ekuverikan mathee thibegen kureeme salaam. Qawmee bahun gina heyo dhuaa kuramun kureeme salaam. Qawmee nishaan ah hurumathaa eku boa labaa thibegen. Audhaana kan libigen evaa dhidha ah kureeme salaam. Nasraa naseebaa kaamiyaabu ge ramzakah himeney. Fessa rathaai hudhaa ekee fenumun kureeme salaam." Translation In National Unity we do salute our Nation, In the National Language we do offer our prayers and salute our nation. We bow in respect to the Emblem of our Nation, 13 And salute the Flag so exalted. We salute the colours of our Flag; Green, Red and White which symbolises Victory, Blessing and Success. Note: There are eight verses in the National Anthem. The three verses written here are only those sung at public gatherings. NATIONAL EMBLEM The National Emblem of the Maldives consists of a coconut palm, a crescent, a star and two criss crossed National Flags with the Traditional Title of the State. The Coconut Palm represents the livelihood of the nation. This is the most beneficial local tree for the inhabitants. Both on land and sea and it plays an important role in the everyday life of the Maldivians. The Crescent and the Star, supported by two National Flags signifies the Islamic faith of the State and its authority respectively. The two words of the Treditional Title of the State, "Al-Dawlat" and "Al-Mahaldheebiyya" were first used by Sultan Al-Ghazee Mohamed Thakurufaanu Al-Azam (1573-85) one of most illustrious heros of the nation. The title "Al-Dawlat Al-Mahaldheebiyya" means the State of The Maldives. NATIONAL TREE The National Tree of the Republic of Maldives is the "Dhivehi Ruh" (Coconut Palm). All the islands throughout the Republic support a dense growth of the palm. Dhivehi Ruh, botanically known as Cocos nucifera and belonging to the family Palmae (Arecaceae) has been widely known here for its economic importance, throughout history. Dhivehi Ruh, which is known also incorporated in the National Emblem of the Republic of Maldives was declared as the National Tree on 25th July 1985 (07th Dh'ul Q'aidha 1405 AH). NATIONAL FLOWER The National Flower of the Republic of Maldives is "Finifenmaa", the commonly known Pink Rose, which is botanically identified as Rosa polyantha. "Finifenmaa" (Rose) has a high regard among the Maldivians and the Pink Rose is one member of the Rose family which could be easily grown in Maldivian soil. Finifenmaa was declared as the National Flower on 25th July 1985 (07th Dh'ul Q'aidha 1405 AH). 14 KNOTS REEF KNOT Begin with an over and under crossing Fig. A, and then bring the ends back above in a second similar crossing Fig. B. The completed knot Fig. C is snugged up by pulling on the ends. Note that it makes no difference whether the first crossing is tied left over right or right over left, as long as the second crossing corresponds to it correctly. A reef knot can be loosened easily by taking an end and a standing part of one rope in each hand and pushing the bights apart. A square knot can also be loosened by pulling the ends and standing part of one rope in opposite directions. The reef knot is used in all first aid work or for joining two pieces of string or cord of equal thickness. SHEET BEND The sheet bend is the most important knots for joining two rope ends and is especially useful when the ropes are of unequal size. A permanent loop tied, seized or spliced can be substituted for the right hand portion of the knot. A loop is first formed with the thicker rope, the thinner is then threaded through this loop, Fig. A, passed right around the end and standing part of the thicker rope B, tucked under as in C and tightened by pulling on the standing part of the thin rope, D. You can see how the thin rope jams against the loop of the thick rope to prevent it from slipping. CLOVE HITCH Make two similar loops, side by side in the rope, Fig. A and B, slide them together so that they look like C. Slip over the end of the pole and pull tight as in D. This is a most useful knot and is the start and finish of some lashings and is widely used in boat work, gadget making and pioneering and for making rope ladders. Passing around an object in one continuous direction, it puts almost no strain on the fibres. There are many different ways of tying this knot, some useful, others merely interesting and amusing. Try your hand at tying as many variations as possible. BOWLINE A very important knot, the bowline forms a loop that will knot slip or jam no matter how great the strain. In its many adaptations it is useful in first aid and life saving. A thorough understanding of the several variations of this knot will be of great value to every scout whether ashore or afloat. Start by forming an overhand loop and a standing part, spaced so as to make the resulting loop large enough for its purpose. The free end is taken up through the loop, around the standing part and back down through the loop. 15 ROUND TURN AND TWO HALF HITCHES This is a simple method of fastening a rope to a spar, ring or another rope. It is especially useful for towing purposes. The round turn is shown in Fig. A and means that the rope makes two turns around the spar. You can see in Fig. B that the second half, the two half hitches is like making a clove hitch on the standing part of the rope with the free end. Pull tight at this stage and it will then look something like B. Sometimes the free end is fastened with a light whipping to the standing part for greater security. An important point to remember is that the pull or tension on the rope in these hitches must be as shown in the sketch that is at right angles, or nearly so to the spar. If this isn’t done there is a risk that the rope may slip along the spar. SHEEP SHANK This knot is used for shortening a long rope which is fastened on both ends. As in case of a tent guy line or blanket line. After taking up the slack as shown in Fig. 1 from an underhand loop as shown in B, slide it over the bight B1, and pull it tight. Do the same thing on the other end to complete the knot. To lock the sheepshank to keep the loops from sliding off add a second half hitch as in Fig. 3 at each end. To render the sheepshank more secure the bight may be seized or toggled to the standing part. COMMON WHIPPING One important preparation is the protection of the rope ends against wear. Unless protected, the twisted strands will loosen and fry. A figure of eight knot at each end will serve as a temporary stop but should not be left permanently. As soon as possible the end should be treated in one of the two following methods. Take two feet of twine, double back 3 inches, lay along the rope, near the end to be whipped as you see in A1. With the long end of the twine, wind round the rope a dozen times pulling each turn tight and making sure that it lies close to the previous turn. Pass the end S through the loop L as in A2, do not let the turn slip. Now pull the end E gently until the loop is about half way through the turns of the whipping, this will lock the ends as shown in the sketch A3. Finally cut of the twine close to the turns of the whipping, taking care not to cut the rope. Try your hand with various sizes of rope so that you become proficient with whippings of all kinds. 16 FIRST AID HOW TO CLEAN AND DRESS A WOUND Clean your hand thoroughly and your fingernails. If it’s a fresh wound there are many types of things to be done, e.g. when you are dressing a wound you must have it cleaned by cotton wool dipped in warm water containing antiseptic, clean soap water is as good and wash away from the wound. The antiseptic kills the germs, which may enter the body through the cut or wound and so cause infection. Apply a dressing to keep germs from the cut. A proper dressing is a piece of gauze material sterilized to free it from germs. (Today you must carry a small first aid kit to camp, outings and even to troop meetings.) Bandage to keep the dressing in place. Use a roller bandage, sticking plaster or your scout scarf. The bandage should not touch the wound, it must be firm (not tight) to control the bleeding. Remembering that three things to be done: 1. Clean the cut. 2. Cover it to keep out the germs. 3. Rest the injured part. Those wounds that need a Doctors care: 1. Punctured wounds: tetanus germs may have been carried deep inside. 2. Wounds with severe bleeding. 3. Wounds in dangerous areas such as chest and face. 4. Wounds where there is any possibility of dirt or broken glass still being present. 17 WHISTLE CALLS FORMATIONS Simple troop formations are necessary for orderliness and smartness and getting the Patrols lined up quickly for games, projects or even ceremonies. The formation calls for the Scout type drill, using silent hand signals and not the military drills with its shouting commands. Silent Signals for Troop Formations When a Troop Leader, Patrol Leader or Drill Master raise his right hand high above his head showing the scout sign, it means “Attention” or “Silence”. As soon as you notice it, do the same. When everyone in your Patrol, Troop or the gathering has made the Scout sign, the leader will lower his hand. Lower yours also and watch for the next signal or command. The arm signals for troop formation are intended to facilitate preparations for unified group action even when the noise and the fury of the elements prevail. The Senior Patrol Leader or who ever is designated as Drill Master facing the troop in operational activities gives these signals. The intelligent Leader should not limit himself to the use of signals suggested herein. Conditions like terrain, weather, kind of emergency, physical conditions of the Scouts, etc. should enable him determine more practical use of signals. Following are brief descriptions and some uses of the arm signals. SINGLE RANK (TROOP LINE) Extend both arms horizontally, parallel to the line he wishes the troop to take, palms turned front if he wants patrols in front of him, palms turned back if he wants patrols behind him. How to Execute: Patrol leaders take the position in front of the center of their patrols. Patrols fall in two paces behind their leaders, with two paces intervals between patrols. Assistant patrol leader takes his place at the extreme right of his patrol and the other members of his patrol falls in at his left in order of sequence established by the patrol (it is most appropriate that the shortest member of the patrol stands immediately next to the assistant patrol leader in this respect and so on). The line will dress right without command and each scout will get into position without telling other scouts where they should stand. (This should be practiced regularly in the troop meetings to get perfection). Common use of this signal: For general line-up, for inspection in meeting room, also in preparing to move the troop across a wide area. 18 COUNCIL OR “U” FORMATION Both arms obliquely top, palms facing inward. How to Execute: Patrols fall in, in a single line in the shape of a 'U' in front of the drill master, patrols observe same order of sequences as in troop line, though patrol leaders fall in on the right of their patrols.Common use of this signal: For demonstrations, announcements. HORSESHOE SHAPE Both arms obliquely downward, palms facing inward. How to Execute: Patrols fall in, in a single line in the shape of a horse shoe in front of the drill master, patrols observe same order of sequences as in troop line, though patrol leaders fall in on the right of their patrols. Common use of this signal: For demonstrations, announcements or special ceremonies. TROOP CIRCLE FORMATION Both arms obliquely downwards, palms facing inward, then swing them from front to rear and back several times. How to execute: Patrols form a complete circle around the leader in same order as in troop line. Common use of this signal: For ceremonies and circle games. 19 OPEN COLUMN OF PATROLS Both arms extended forward, but bent at right angles at elbows, palms open with fingers towards the sky. How to execute: Patrols fall in, one behind the other, dressing immediately on the front patrol and on the right. A distance equal to the length of each patrol should be left in between the patrols. The patrol leader takes two paces in front and to the centre of the patrol. Common use of this signal: For inspection and parade formation. CLOSE COLUMN OF PATROLS Both arms extended forward, but bent at right angles at elbows, fists are closed and extended towards the sky. How to execute: Patrols will fall in, one behind the other, dressing immediately on the front patrol and on the right with the patrol leader on the right of the patrol. Common use of this signal: For assembly in small rooms or area and crowded parade formation. PARALLEL FILES OF PATROLS Arms forward at shoulder height, palms facing inward, fingers pointing front. How to execute: Patrol leaders takes position two paces apart, their numbers fall in behind them. Common use of this signal: For relays and other games and to give information. DISMISS Swing arms downward in crossed-front position, repeated several times. Common use of this signal: For breaking up formation or beginning of operation after clear instructions has been given. 20 SOME OTHER USEFUL SIGNALS .. FORWARD One arm extended upward and down to arm forward. Means: “Follow me”, or “let’s go” or “keep moving”. TURN THIS WAY Arms side ward. Column right or left according to the direction pointed. HALT Hands over Shoulder to arm upward, fingers extended and joined, palm facing front. Means, “Stop but be on the alert”. HURRY Closed fist, hand over shoulder, pump arm up- down twice or more. Means, “Double time”. “Run”, if assigned to do something when given this signal, “makes it snappy”. DOWN From arms forward shoulder level, palms down, lower hands to waist level. "“Take cover” or “lay low”. SPREAD OUT Arms sideward, palms down. Means “Keep further apart”. ASSEMBLE Wave hands in a circle over your head. Also means “come here”. CLOSE UP Closed fist over your head or arms in front and bringing towards you. Means, “Gather around me” or “come closer to me”. 21