More than 2,500 scouts from 18 countries gathered at the Sarimbun Scout Camp in Lim Chu Kang yesterday to mark Singapore's 50th birthday at a celebration organised by the Singapore Scout Association (SSA).

The scouts, from countries including Indonesia, Cambodia, Bangladesh and the Maldives, are here until Sunday for the SG50 International Jamboree.

They will take part in cultural exchange and outdoor adventure activities, and lead community service projects to promote social graciousness and environmental sustainability. This is the third time that the SSA has hosted such a large international gathering since 2000.

"I really enjoy events like this as we get to meet and interact with scouts from other countries," said Miss Sylfa Alfa Rahmatia, 20, a teacher who is here with a group of Indonesian students.

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, who was guest of honour at the opening ceremony, said: "We are happy that our friends from overseas have come to join us at this upsized SG50 jamboree."

Yuen Sin