38
JOSEPHIAN ANNUAL 2016 • LEARNING JOURNEYS
SJI Kayaking Expedition – Pulau Sibu , Malaysia
The SJI Kayaking Expeditions to Pulau Sibu , Malaysia was conducted from 4 – 6 June 2016 . 29 students from Secondary 2 and 3 signed up to participate in the expedition around Pulau Sibu and island hoping to other islands in the vicinity namely Pulau Tengah and Pulau Lima .
The programme was designed to provide students with an authentic adventure kayaking experience , whilst exploring the scenic surroundings of these islands on the east coast of West Malaysia . Kayaking provides the students with the opportunity to get in close to coastal features like sand banks , coral reefs , mud flats and sea caves which are usually not possible with motorised crafts . The students were able to observe and appreciate the real life experience of the effects of the tide , current and wind as they paddled their way to the various islands . Despite the sore and aching muscles , all the participants survived to tell their stories of perseverance , endurance and friendship .
“ When we were kayaking on the second day , I was totally exhausted and frustrated as the waves kept on pushing us off course . E Han and I encouraged each other to push on as we had no choice because we were in the middle of the ocean . That made me understand the importance of friendship and having a positive mind set . We believe that it could be the most powerful force in nature .”
Nicholas Chong ( MN201 )
“ While kayaking , that long journey , I thought of my parents , friends and most importantly that I had to get stronger when I return to Singapore ! The food we got at the islands was amazing . Spicy ‘ sotong ’, fresh fish , rice and some vegetables and fruit . Mr Nathan , our teacher-in-charge , even caught a fresh fish ! We managed to cook it over a fire and one small piece of its flesh melted in my mouth .”
Devvrat Atul Desai ( MN301 )
" I was very happy I went on this expedition . I am not by nature sporty - hence this trip was a boost to my confidence as I learnt to be independent and self-reliant ."
Ethan Man ( MN201 )
“ We had to kayak for many kilometres and I thought it would be very easy at first ; I was wrong and I was soon fatigued . I wanted to give up but my paddling buddy spurred me on , his encouraging words was indeed helpful , he repeated his mantra to me “ When the going gets tough , the tough gets going ”. The instructors also provided me with tips to refine my paddling to be more efficient in the water . I was elated when we reached shore and felt a strong sense of achievement having completed the expedition . I will certainly sign up for such trips in the future .”
Muruggiah Jayaprakash ( FN203 )
" I found the second day most enjoyable . We started early in the morning , awakened by the sea breeze and the excitement of our friends . The early start meant that we were able to finish the 20km kayak route and visit all the different island where we hoped to see beautiful corals through the crystal clear water . Well , we did see cute fishes and wonderful corals . We were fortunate and proud to see Mr Nathan catch a big fish that he shared during lunch . It was very fresh and taste really yummy . The 20km was not always smooth sailing , we had to fight our hunger , our pain , the current , and worst , the scorching hot sun . It was really hard work , but with encouragement from our friends and teachers , I am proud to say we all came back in one piece .
This trip was an unforgettable experience as I got to know my friends better . If the trip would be organised again for all levels , I would definitely sign up again .”
Shawn Quek ( MN201 )