Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah, the President of the Girl Guide Association of Brunei Darussalam (GGABD), graced the presentation of tenderfoot badges, warrant and pre-warrant cards to new members of the association.

The ceremony was held at the Raja Isteri Girls High School (STPRI) in Bandar Seri Begawan. On arrival, HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah was greeted by GGABD Chief Commissioner Dyg Hajah Siti Hafsah, the principal of STPRI and other members of the association.

Accompanying HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah to the ceremony were Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, the vice-president of the association.

The ceremony started with the recital of surah al-fatihah led by Dayang Hajah Fatimah followed by a welcoming address by Dayang Hajah Napsiah binti Haji Muhammad, the Commissioner of GGABD who was also the chairman of the ceremony.

The ceremony then witnessed the recital of the 'Oath of Allegiance' led by the Chief Commissioner of GGABD. Meanwhile, for the Girl Guide and Brownie Pack, their pledge of allegiance was led by Dayang Kaniz binti Abdul Shakoor, the co-secretary of the ceremony.

At the ceremony, a total of 234 new members received their tenderfoot badges, which comprised 123 members from the Brownie Pack, 86 members from Girl Guide, three Ranger Guides, 10 Young Leaders, six Brownie Guiders and six Guide Guiders.

HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah later presented pre-warrant cards to 13 Guiders and warrant cards to 21 Guiders.

GGABD as a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Guide Scouts (WAGGGS) is required to increase its membership to at least five per cent of the total membership. In 2011, the association had managed to have a total of 1, 870 members.

One of the goals that was set by GGABD was to increase its membership every year and to provide quality guides not only for GGABD but WAGGGS as well.

Membership of GGABD has been school-based since its formation 60 years ago. At present GGABD is slowly adding members from the community and members of the association are encouraged to join activities organised by the Girl Guide headquarters.

Members of the association are also required to adhere to specific criteria and abide by the Girl Guide laws and by being a member of the association one shall gain guide experience, including the commitment through the Promise and Law.

As a member of GGABD, an individual can experience self-development and achieve her full individual potential as it encourages continual personal growth.

Members will be able to relate to others and increase understanding, skill and respect, promote understanding, appreciation of individuals, cultural, religious and social differences and at the same time promote the ability to build friendships and working relationships. - Borneo Bulletin (23 April 2012)