Weather wrecks outdoor event, ruining jamboree.

PUTRAJAYA: The 499 members of the Malaysian contingent attending the 25th World Scout Jamboree in Seoul, South Korea, have been confirmed as safe despite the extreme heatwave in Saemangeum. The Malaysian Embassy in South Korea released a statement on Sunday stating that four members of the Malaysian contingent experienced health issues such as headaches, fever, and rashes. However, all four have received proper treatment and are now doing well. The embassy will continue to maintain close communication with the Malaysian contingent and event organizers to stay updated on the latest developments. Malaysians who require consular assistance have been provided with the contact details of the embassy in Seoul.

Reports from international sources indicate that hundreds of people have fallen ill at the World Scout Jamboree due to temperatures reaching 35°C. The British group, consisting of 4,500 members, is relocating from Saemangeum to Seoul as a precautionary measure. The United States and Singapore have decided to withdraw their teams from the event. Additionally, the South Korean government has announced plans for an early departure of all participants from the campsite due to the expected impact of Typhoon Khanun. The World Organisation of the Scout Movement (WOSM) has confirmed this decision and urgently requested the government to expedite the departure plans and provide necessary resources and support for the participants until they return to their home countries.

The 25th World Scout Jamboree began on August 1 with approximately 43,000 Scouts and volunteers from 158 countries in attendance. It was scheduled to continue until Saturday, but the approach of Typhoon Khanun has prompted the need for an early departure. The typhoon is expected to make landfall on Thursday morning, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the Korean Peninsula. As a result, the Scouts will leave Saemangeum gradually, and discussions are underway to relocate remaining activities and lodgings to Seoul and the surrounding capital area. The jamboree organizing committee is also exploring options to accommodate participants in university dorms and other large-scale facilities in nearby areas.