Aug.08

Today is a day that would forever be engraved in our hears. One that fills of feelings indescribable to the soul. Even till now, a little of me still tingles as the feelings of emptiness run through my heart. Reminiscing the great times that we had with our beloved youth leaders hailing from last years edition of AYDPO, embracing their energetic charisma and cherishing the valuable insightsthat they offered makes tonight ever more lonely.

Today also marks the day where we begin our journey on the serene, pristine and virgin island of Tokoshiki. The eventful morning began with our assigned cleaning duties- the shower, corridor, room and taking out the garbage. This followed with a hearty breakfast and a tearful farewell for the youth leaders. We were then scheduled to travel to Tomari Port where a ferry would move us to Tokashiki Island.

Memories of the journey on the ferry would be one that would be remembered forever. Laughter was exchanged, closer bonds were fostered and smiles were evident on everyone’s face. The wind unfailing combed our hair and the view never failed to astound as we stood on the deck exchanging conversations.

Upon arrival, we were ferried by bus to the Okinawa Youth Friendship Center where we were welcomed by the vice deputy director of the youth center. An informative lecture was then held at the Auditorium by Professor JM Purves from the University of the Ryukyu presenting a very enlightening and eyeopening topic of Okinawa from ancient to modern times. He briefed us about how civilisation in Okinawa started out from the very beginnings of migration of people from South-East Asia to Ryukyu (at that time modern day Okinawa excluding the Amami Islands) to the formation of Utakis around Okinawa which gradually developed into Gusukus (“sacred places/ castles”) and later to the establishment of ties with the Yuan Dynasty of China which saw it gain in prosperity and power. A question and answer session promptly followed after dinner where many doubts and misconceptions were clarified.

Signing off,

Lau Ka Yong

Brunei, Group 1-2