President Lai 賴清德 Attends the "2025 National Scout Day of TGASC"
President Lai mentioned he was a cub scout when he was young!
President Lai Ching-te attended the "2025 National Scout Day of TGASC" this morning (15th). He commends the Scouts for their achievements in international exchanges, commitment to environmental sustainability, and emphasis on local community service. He hopes that the Scout spirit will inspire society and become vital for national progress.
In his address, the President stated that he was honored to accept the appointment and officially assume the role of Chief Scout of "The General Association of the Scouts of China(Taiwan)." He expressed his deep gratitude for being part of the Scouts Association. He pledged to abide by its principles and regulations, working with all members to serve the nation and its people.
The President noted that through the dedicated efforts of the previous Chief Scout, Chief Commissioner, and all Scout leaders, the TGASC has secured a respected position within the World Organization of the Scout Movement - WOSM. Last year, TGASC won the bid to host the "TGASC-Taiwan 2029 World Scout Moot." Moreover, the "第28屆亞太童軍領袖會議 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference" will be held in Kaohsiung this October. These events are pivotal moments to showcase the strength, cultural uniqueness, and warm hospitality of Taiwanese Scouting. They represent the collective efforts that have brought the TGASC onto the global stage and invited the world to experience Taiwan. The President also expressed confidence that, with the support of the Ministry of Education, the preparations for the "2029 World Moot" will proceed smoothly over the next four years, enabling all international Scout friends visiting Taiwan to feel a sense of pride in our nation and our accomplishments.
In addition to its international engagements, TGASC has partnered with the "Taiwan RE-THINK Environmental Education Association" to launch the "National Coastal Marine Debris Survey Project" this year. This innovative initiative integrates environmental protection with educational outreach. As an island nation with abundant marine resources, Taiwan recognizes that preserving the marine ecosystem is a shared responsibility. The President encouraged all Scouts to actively participate in the project and demonstrate their commitment to sustainable environmental practices.
The President also emphasized the importance of community service alongside environmental efforts. He paid special tribute to a distinguished Scout, Mr. Tseng Po-chun of the "Chiayi City Changmin Scout Group." When a colleague collapsed, losing consciousness and heartbeat, Mr. Tseng promptly administered CPR, embodying the Scout motto "to do what is right, without hesitation." He was privileged to present the "Renai(benevolence) Honorary Award" to Mr. Tseng, hoping to inspire more individuals to embrace the Scout spirit and become significant contributors to societal progress.
Speaking at the Yangmingshan Scout Center gathering, the President expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Education for supporting the renovation of the camp. With such robust backing, he is confident that this camp—steeped in the history and memories of Scouting—will be revitalized to provide a better learning environment for younger members.
The President affirmed that Scouting is a lifelong journey—"once a Scout, always a Scout." He hopes that the enduring Scout spirit will continue influencing society and driving national progress. He looked forward to working together with everyone and extended his best wishes for the success of the conference and for the health and well-being of all Scouts.
Subsequently, the President presented various awards, including the Scouters Award, the Service Honor Award, the Renai Honorary Award, and the Scouts of the World Award, to the deserving Scout service personnel. He also toured the booths for the "28th Asia-Pacific Scout," the "2029 World Moot," and the "International Coastal Marine Debris Survey Project" to gain insights into their preparation and execution.
Minister of Education Minster 教育部 Cheng Ying-yao and Chief Commissioner Lin Ming-yu 林明裕 of the TGASC, among other dignitaries, also attended the event.
