MSAJ Team Building Faced Unpredictable Events—Nurtures Bonds Stronger Than Ever

SHIRAKO, 12–14 August — MSAJ Team Building 2026 brought together 37 active MSAJ members from across Japan for a three-day, two-night programme in Shirako, Chiba.

Led by the People Development Bureau, with Adlina Najwa serving as programme coordinator, the programme was organised with one main purpose: to strengthen teamwork, trust, and cooperation among members of MSAJ. Beyond simply working together within the organisation, it was also an opportunity for members from different parts of Japan to meet, connect, and better understand the people behind the roles they work with.

Throughout the three days, participants took part in a variety of activities, including debates, tower building, team challenges, and a cultural night. Each activity tested something different, from communication and creativity to problem-solving, leadership, and the ability to work together under pressure.

Of course, not everything went according to plan.

On the final day, heavy rain and flooding across parts of Chiba disrupted public transportation, making the journey home far more complicated than anyone had expected. With several transport options affected, participants had to work together to figure out alternative routes and make sure everyone could leave the area safely.

In a situation that could easily have become overwhelming, members shared transportation updates, checked on one another, coordinated alternative arrangements, and made sure nobody was left to handle the situation alone. After spending three days talking about and practising teamwork, everyone suddenly found themselves putting it into practice when it mattered.

What began as a programme to strengthen the team therefore ended with perhaps its most meaningful lesson. Teamwork was no longer just something demonstrated through games and activities, but through patience, responsibility, communication, and the willingness to look out for one another.

Three days, 37 members, countless memories. Perhaps the strongest team-building activity was the one nobody planned.