The Scout Movement is more than just an activity—it carries both an impression and a message that spans across time. Friends of UNDIRA, if we trace back through history, Scouting in Indonesia began in 1912 with the establishment of the Nederlandsche Padvinders Organisatie (NPO) during the Dutch colonial era. At that time, it consisted solely of Dutch members, with no involvement from the indigenous population.

In response to this injustice, Mangkunegara VII founded the Javaansche Padvinders Organisatie specifically for indigenous youth. This organization later evolved into various scouting movements, one of which we still know today—Hizbul Wathan. The journey continued, and on August 14, 1961, President Soekarno officially inaugurated the Indonesian Scout Movement at the State Palace, alongside Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX and Brigadier General Dr. Aziz Saleh. This date was later designated as Indonesia’s National Scout Day.

Originally, Scouts — were initially known as Poromoko (which translates intoi “the front guard in battle”). Later on however, they were formally named Pramuka.

But what exactly does “Scout” mean? Is it merely about exploration and camping that bring a sense of relaxation? Friends of UNDIRA, according to the official website of the Indonesian Scout Movement, the term Pramuka still stands for "Praja Muda Karana"—meaning, young individuals who take joy in creating and contributing. This meaning remains the guiding principle of the Scout Movement today.

Amid rapid technological advancement, intense industrial competition, and the culture of seeking validation in Society 5.0—which gradually erodes social empathy and fosters individualism—the spirit of Scouting stands as a torch, reminding us not only of the essence of social life but also of how, even in a seemingly barren era, we can cultivate ourselves into individuals of dignity, humane and collaborative.

As guides and front-liners within society, the Scout Movement plays an active role in encouraging youth participation through various humanitarian activities such as social service, community outreach, and environmental cleaning and preservation.

Beyond honing practical and also logical skills, Scouting shapes individuals into better human beings. Through various outdoor and collaborative activities—such as camping, or even something as simple as lighting a campfire and sharing stories—Scouting instills values rooted in togetherness and solidarity. It serves as a compass, guiding the younger generation to uphold social values and embrace the principle of “humanizing humanity.” instead of merely seeing people as a passerby or expandable resources, Scouting serve to tell us that humanity is about harnessing while also building connections through hardships, and sometimes bonfire.

As an activity that directly rejuvenates and strengthens youth, Scouting also instills values of transparency, accountability, and teamwork. Group activities train mutual trust, while field challenges sharpen leadership and team management skills—competencies highly essential in the professional world.

By uniting self-development, dignity, creativity, and social awareness, the spirit of Scouting remains relevant in the modern era. It teaches that personal growth must walk hand in hand with collective progress, and that discipline, responsibility, and leadership—firm yet humane—are essential provisions for facing the global challenge of moral degradation.

List of References:

Pramuka Indonesia Scout Movement 

Menggali Nilai-nilai Kemanusiaan Melalui Kegiatan Pramuka., Kumparan.com