KUCHING: Lee Van Can, an active youth leader of the Malaysian Red Crescent, Stampin District, will join the 64th International Study and Friendship Camp 2019 hosted by the Austrian Red Cross Society together with another youth leader, Jordan Hu of Kuching District Red Crescent.
This exciting event will be held from July 8-22 in Langenlois, a beautiful small city in Lower Austria, approximately an hour bus ride from Vienna, the federal capital of Austria.
Ninety national societies of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement have been invited to send two motivated and enthusiastic youth volunteers aged 16-23 each to attend the event.
This is the first time youth volunteers from Sarawak are selected to represent Malaysia in this important event. This was revealed by Chong Choon Chiang, chairman of Stampin District, during a simple flag presentation ceremony at the secretariat yesterday morning.
“The Austrian Red Cross’ 64th International Study and Friendship Camp 2019 is an annual event that brings together young people who are involved in the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement at local and national levels from around the world.
“These young volunteers come together to work on certain topics, exchange ideas and opinions, share life experiences and discuss cultural perspectives,” said Chong.
The theme for this year’s event is “Crack the Code — Activate Your Mind and Leave Your Judgements Behind”.
Besides discussions on the seven fundamental principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, topics that are important and meaningful to all young people, the two-week programme will focus on the use of technology and its achievements in the civil sphere, the role of the individual acting against discrimination and bullying both online and offline, cultural exchange, network and friendship building with fun exercises and activity groups.
During the camp, a “Festival of Nations” will take place. Each delegation has the opportunity to organise a national day featuring intercultural and souvenirs exchanges and exhibitions. Participants are requested to bring along their national costumes and materials (information on their countries and organisations, posters, pictures, small snacks, music and souvenirs in the forms of badges, pins and T-shirts for exchange) and to present a song or dance from their countries.
The participants will be given several opportunities to explore the beautiful sights and culture of lovely Austria in the heart of Europe
Lee Van Can is an outstanding youth leader from Chung Hua Middle School No. 1 Red Crescent Youth Unit. He has been a Red Crescent volunteer ever since he studied at Chung Hua Primary School No. 5 until he completed his senior secondary education.
He is now a member of the Red Crescent Volunteer Aid Detachment involving in disaster and voluntary first aid services.
