It
was 7 am in the morning, and already a huge buzz of excitement seemed to radiate
within the gates of the Cempaka Damansara School. Students from both schools have
gathered happily for the bronze camp at Gombak. After a few minutes of briefing
and organizing, we were segregated into two groups and assigned our mode of transportation.
As you would' ve imagined, the one-hour journey was definitely an enjoyable
one. The excitement in the air could be felt with students giggling, laughing
and chatting away like hooligans in a bus. My heart was full of anticipation-Rebutia
Camp..here we come!
Soon, we arrived at the doorsteps of the camp. We were welcomed warmly
by the friendly Layang group facilitators and were introduced to each and every
one of them. Putting our luggage down, we started off by dividing ourselves into
6 different teams . We were then asked to create our very own war cry,
monument and theme song.
I was indeed lucky to be in a team with absolutely amazing individuals.
All high in spirits, the 10 of us came up with very creative ideas. I was in the
"Makaka" (the scientific name for Monkey..cool,huh?) team with other
3 Cherasans and 6 Damansarans. Although without much preparation, we managed to
receive a huge applause from the audience. Hurrah!
Later, all the 6 teams were divided into 2 bigger groups-Group A and Group
B. The " Makaka" team was in Group A where the first activity on
the agenda was abseiling and orienteering. Without haste, we got into our sporting
gears and gathered in the hall. We started trekking.
Finally after a tiring walk through a jungle pathway, stream crossing and
a few hill climbing, we reached the footsteps of "sanctuary" .The waterfall
was simply beautiful with crystal-clear water splashing from above. We were to
climb up the hill and abseil down the waterfall. It was my turn.
I abseiled down very calmly while enjoying the beauty of nature-the sound
of the splashing water and the drops of cool water caressing my face. Though,
I slipped a few times as the rocks were really slippery and there was no actual
footing. From then on, I was a little panicky and screamed all the way down. The
climb down left me breathless and the icy-cold water made me shiver all the way
to my spine.
After a few swims in the river, it was time to head back to camp and indulge
in the " tasty" dinner made. Having ourselves well cleaned, it
was presentation night. The " Makaka" team came up with a comedy
drama, which truthfully, was simply mediocre. All teams came up with equally simple
presentations, as time was scarce.
At about midnight, we went for a night walk through a different route.
With the moon shining through the night, we trekked and saw glow-in-the-dark fungus.
Thereafter, we drifted to slumber land.
After breakfast, Group A and Group B swapped activities. It was our group'
s turn to river-trek and learn a few survival skills.
I, being my usual adventurous self had the most fun with a few of my friends.
We were sitting at every "mini-waterfall" and spotting so called "marble"
and "jade" rocks. Splashing water at each other, we truly enjoyed the
beauty of the magnificent river.
In a matter of minutes, we arrived at the spot where we were to learn and
practice a few survival skills. Abang Sham, our facilitator for the day taught
us how to trap animals, how to build a shelter; basically how to survive in the
jungle.
After the session of teaching, we were all tested on our level of comprehension
by actually putting it to practice. Makaka did a terrific job in survival skills,
I must say. Our efforts, climbing up the steep and muddy hill, getting our fingers
pricked was all worthwhile. The trap we made was creative, we picked the best
spot for our shelter, our egg was fairly cooked and best of all, and we received
the Best Bread Award. Makaka rules!
Subsequently, we ate lunch and packed up. Sad to say, it was already time
to leave. Bid farewell, the Cherasans went on a different bus home. ADIOS!
All
I can say is it was indeed an enjoyable camp. I was very thankful that I was bestowed
the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and at the same time broaden
my knowledge and meet new acquaintances. Next up, silver camp!