ELS Language Centres, Malaysia

PULAU PANGKOR, PERAK - This island, which is of historical significance due to a famous treaty in 1874, is now firmly etched in the minds of 53 ELS students after experiencing a memorable and enriching stay during a culturally significant period last January.

During the visit (January 24-26, 2009), the students - from different ELS centres throughout the country, and accompanied by two staff members - were involved in various activities that were educational, healthy, character-building and also enjoyable. They included competitions, swimming, snorkelling and a night exploration. There were other learning experiences for the students, who were from 11 countries in the Middle East and other Asian regions where an island holiday was not readily accessible.

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The students had to endure some difficulty at the start of the visit however. That Saturday, which was the beginning of the festive holidays, saw heavy traffic along the highway which slowed down the journey. That was to be the only glitch during the whole visit. Upon reaching their destination and checking in at their hotel, things went on smoothly right until they departed the following Monday.

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The organisers had planned the visit with a lot of care and thought, which ensured that maximum benefits were obtained from the activities planned. In the Sand-Castle Competition for instance, the students learned to cooperate among themselves in an effort to win. English language presentation skills were utilised when the students had to explain various aspects of their creations.

There were also activities that stressed on physical fitness, including beach volleyball, swimming and snorkelling. In beach volleyball, the teamwork helped to build new friendships among the students; of whom many were strangers previously.

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Appreciation of nature activities were included. They came in the form of a nocturnal walk to identify various creatures; and the highlights of the visit - island-hopping in boats and snorkelling. Both these activities showed the beauty of life above and under the sea.

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The students also had a look at how life was on the island during the visit to a fishing village. An unplanned activity showed their generosity. After attending a Malay wedding, they pooled in some money together and presented over RM300 to the bride and groom - a spontaneous act that would long be remembered by the couple.

The evening of January 25, which was the eve of the Lunar Chinese New Year, was also a memorable occasion - especially to the three ELS students who were from China. All welcomed the year of the Oxen with fireworks, cheers and hugs!

The students departed Pulau Pangkor swiftly the following afternoon as more tourists arrived. It was the end of an enriching visit with unique experiences that will remain in the memories of those involved.