Since the publication of Scouting for Boys in 1908, all Scouts and Guides around the world have taken a Scout (or Guide) promise or oath to live up to ideals of the movement, and subscribed to a Scout Law. The wording of the Scout Promise (or Oath) and Scout Law have varied slightly over time and from country to country. Some national organization promises are given below. Although most Scouting and Guiding organizations use the word 'promise', a few such as the Boy Scouts of America tend to use 'oath' instead. Typically, Scouts and Guides will make the three-fingered Scout Sign when reciting the promise.

Original 1908 text

In his original book on boy scouting, Baden-Powell introduced the scout promise, as follows:[1]
Before he becomes a scout, a boy must take the scout's oath, thus:

On my honour I promise that---

   1. I will do my duty to God and the Queen.

   2. I will do my best to help others, whatever it costs me.

   3. I know the scout law, and will obey it.

While taking this oath the scout will stand, holding his right hand raised level with his shoulder, palm to the front, thumb resting on the nail of the little finger and the other three fingers upright, pointing upwards:--- This is the scout's salute and secret sign.

Malaysia Version

Bahawa dengan sesungguhnya,

saya berjanji dan bersetia,

yang saya,

dengan seberapa daya upaya saya,

akan:

Taat kepada Tuhan, Raja dan Negara; 

Menolong orang pada setiap masa; 

Menurut undang-undang pengakap.