Experience is the best teacher. At DJP, we engineer learning experiences for participants in a way that they can explore work or personal issues in a safe, ‘lab’ environment. As such, new games and improvisation of existing games are constantly tested during our recce trips, retreats and our very own trainining programmes.

Recently, we went for a trip to Gopeng, Perak, organised by our sister company Travel Tales  Sdn Bhd. It was the perfect retreat – the serene jungle environment, soothing cool water, historical caves and Orang Asli styled bamboo chalets. Though we’ve conducted programmes here for quite a number of times, it’s a different experience everytime.

During the trip we had the opportunity to try out the outdoor activities offered there and new games for our programmes. It was also a good opportunity for the newer members of the DJP family to be exposed to the DJP method of training. Our little breakaway was filled with energizing activities – from caving in Gua Kandu to wet abseiling to white water rafting. It was so interesting to learn about the historical past of Gua Kandu, where the communists used to hideout during the war. During white water rafting we used our knowledge of ‘reading the river’ into practice – from how and when to steer the boat to safety issues during rafting.

It is experiences like these that adds on to our knowledge on game programming. Exposing ourselves as participants in the games we design help us brainstorm and improvise them. Submerging ourselves in the experience allows us to visualise the intended outcomes and participant reactions from every angle. Thus, the learning outcomes can be achieved more objectively.

This little retreat was not just about relaxation. At DJP, it was a real learning experience. The breakaway and relaxation allowed us to analyse ourselves on areas for personal development by debriefing each other. We are always looking for opportunities to learn and experience new things. The Gopeng trip was memorable simply because we acquired new knowledge. We look forward to our next learning retreat.  

Adeline’s Rest House - our home for the next 3 days and 2 nights.

It was so much fun to sit behind the truck - our ‘limousine’ to travel around Gopeng.

Spelunking was exhilirating! Keith crawling in a tight space.

Descending down a steep slope in Gua Kandu.

The view was breathtaking from inside the cave.

We all had to go through standard safety briefing before abseiling down the waterfall. 

All geared up for wet abseiling.

Wet abseiling down the waterfall

Teow meditating at the waterfall.

One thing we always look forward to everytime we’re at Adeline’s Rest House - the food! She cooks really, really well. We loved every single meal she prepared for us.

Body surfing was another favourite activity.

Teow body surfing down the river

During trekking, we visited the Rajah Brooke Butterfly colony.

Uh oh! A rock up ahead. White water rafting down the river.

Trying to keep away from the rocks.

That was fun! Can we do that again?

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After years in the corporate world, many of us forget what it is like being young and adventurous. We always remember the good old days in high school and college as these were the best times of our lives – how we use to play simple games together, clowning around and sharing jokes, school camps and many other treasured lifetime experiences. At some stage, we were so eager to grow up so soon, we do not even realise that we have left that childhood behind us, never to experience it again.

I recently had the opportunity to revisit my ‘younger days’ with the Interactors of SMK DU. We spent three days in Adeline’s Rest House in Gopeng, Perak. Just hanging out with them made me feel like 16 again. Their creativity, spontaneity and youth was like a breath of fresh air.

For some, it was the first time they have experienced activities like caving and body surfing. Bringing them into Gua Kandu reminded me of my first caving experience back in high school. The awe and wonder was unforgettable. Body surfing in the river was another first for most of them. I remember a particular boy who was initially frightened but was courageous enough to try it for the second time! The games we played were designed to bring out the potential in each and every individual. The natural environment with the cave and river added to the learning experiences.

Observing them discovering themselves gradually, coming out of their comfort zones and stepping forward to take charge were the real highlights of the programme. The change in attitude were evident throughout the entire three days. The shy ones had more courage to try new things, some learnt about the importance of humility in leadership and others learnt the importance of teamwork and communication. Most of all, they learnt that to realise their goals in life, it takes a lot of hard work and initiative.

Learning never stops. A man stops learning only when he is dead. What I learnt from them was not to take life too seriously. Yes, at times you have to be serious, but learning how to have fun and relax are also very important so as not to let the stress build up too much. Spending these three days with the Interactors was fun and relaxing for me. It was an experience worth remembering for a lifetime.

“Miaw miaw!” An Interactor trying to imitate a cat during ice-breaking

Morning exercise was the perfect activity to get everybody started for the day.

Meals were always satisfying. Here Interactors are helping serve breakfasts to each other.

Eagerly anticipating instructions for a workshop game.

 

Fun and learning are central to the programme. Here Interactors are discussing learning points from a previous game.

Success!! Victory written all over their faces after a difficult struggle during one of the games.

Blindfolded Interactors getting whacked by water balloons. It was all part of the fun.

“Caving is fun!” Two of interactors managed to snap a photo inside Gua Kandu.

Yay! We made it out of the cave!

Climbing down the steep hill from the cave was quite an adventure itself. Interactors holding on the rope as they make their way down.

Tired and happy faces after caving.

Dirt-filth clothes. DJP facilitator Melissa (with red bag) briefing the boys before everybody takes a dip into ‘fountain’ nearby.

The final night was filled with fun games and performances. Here Interactors are singing “D’Jungle Juniors Rock”.

Individual groups doing their performances for the night.

Body surfing was fun!

Having a splashing good time in the water.

Nathelly Wee (president of SMK DU Interact Club, in orange jacket) having a good time at the river.

Lunch before going off. We will always remember the delicious meals at Adeline’s Resthouse.

Thanks for the memories Interactors!