TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference opened Sunday, Oct. 12, at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center, marking its return to Taiwan after 36 years, CNA reported.

More than 700 Scout leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region gathered to discuss youth development and the future of Scouting, with sessions on virtual reality, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and educational city tours.

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) said Scouting is a global movement that promotes service, leadership, and teamwork, adding these values not only shape youth but also strengthen world peace and sustainability.

Chen noted Taiwan’s long participation in international Scouting events, saying hosting the meeting shows Kaohsiung’s growing role in global exchange, and he invited participants to explore the city and see its transformation.

Kaohsiung has shifted from a heavy industrial city to a cultural and business hub that attracts global investment, Chen said, adding the city’s progress reflects the spirit of service and cooperation found in Scouting.

During the event, the General Association of the Scouts of China (Taiwan) will hold several related exhibitions open to the public free of charge to help people learn about Scouting through diverse displays, the Kaohsiung Education Bureau said.

The Asia-Pacific Scout Conference is held every three years and is attended by delegations from national Scout associations across the region. Taipei previously hosted the conference in 1989.