At Outward Bound Sabah, rafting is usually used in one of the following ways:
• as part of the final expedition on Challenge Course
• as part of a one day jungle walk / one day raft combination on shorter course
• as a separate one day activity itself

It is done in the Papar River which has rapids up to Class III in times of high water. During most times, the rapids would be considered Class I or II which is ideal for beginners.
You may read the International Grading Scale of River Difficult for explanation of the classes.

Instead of a rubber boat, we used inner tube and bamboo lashed together to form a raft that will be used on this river. This practice is very beneficial for the participants as they will work together to build a strong and practicable raft for their own group. Everyone will be involved in this process which at the same time, will enhance the level of teamwork, brainstorming, decision making and leadership, to name a few.

 

Instruction: please click the thumbnail to view the larger picture

This exercise is done in front of the boathouse in Kawang River. Group will be given certain amount of time to discuss, plan and finally build their raft. The objective is to build a raft by using the inner tubes and bamboo or blue plastic barrels and wooden spars, that can accommodate all the members in the group and to cross the river safely.

Aims:

• Management of multi-faceted project
• planning
• presentation skills
• budgeting
• creativity
• Management of human resources, equipment, technical skills allocation, finances and time

Instruction: please click the thumbnail to view the larger picture

"Outward Bound has taught me about choices... I am beginning to realize how much potential I have, and how the choices I make will take me in different directions."    - Fernanda, OB participant