Malaysia's national service programme has seen its fair share of ups and downs since its inception in 2004. Initially compulsory for those aged 18 and above, the programme aimed to instill patriotism, resilience, and volunteerism in the nation's youth. However, it was scrapped by the Pakatan Harapan government in August 2018, only to be reintroduced in 2019 with participation made optional. As the programme restarts, questions arise about whether it can avoid its on-again, off-again history.
The national service programme is open to individuals aged 16 to 35, with a basic training phase exclusively for those aged 17 to 20. This phase will take place at 13 Territorial Army camps, 20 public universities, and selected polytechnics nationwide. The programme involves intensive field training and practical components designed to foster a greater sense of national pride among youth.
Implemented by the Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (MIDAS), the programme is set to roll out in phases. The first phase began in January 2023 with 148 males and 52 females selected from a pool of 564 applications. The next phase will expand to include 500 different recruits in July 2023, with full implementation planned for the following year. Volunteer bodies and reservists such as the Auxiliary Police, Auxiliary Fire Brigade, and Civil Defence Force will run these phases.
The programme's return has sparked mixed reactions. Some former trainees recall their experiences with apprehension.
"I didn't want to go. I was terrified of ragging and was worried I wouldn't be able to endure it," said Sue Haizal.
Despite initial fears, many found the experience transformative.
"I did many things that I wouldn’t have done if I hadn’t gone there," Haizal added.
"I was an introvert and didn’t have much confidence, but I believe this improved after the national service," she further noted.
Supporters argue that the programme can rejuvenate national pride by returning to its foundational goals.
"The national service should go back to the basics of how the country was formed. The patriotism will be inculcated in the trainees I believe,” commented Mohd Syafik Mohd Taufik.
However, concerns about continuity and effectiveness persist.
"How are you going to improve it if there is no continuity?" questioned Ahmad, suggesting a need for more trainers at the camps to prevent unwanted incidents.
Critics highlight legacy issues from previous iterations of the programme.
"There are no clear objectives because of legacy problems from the previous national service programmes. If it wants to continue, it should be military or semi-military. If we want to do it, it must be properly done," stated Saifuddin Abdullah.
Abdullah also pointed out that the scale of the current national service is significantly larger than its predecessors, implying potential budgetary challenges.
"The target for the third national service is bigger than the first two. It is possible the actual programme in 2026 will require a bigger budget," he noted.
The programme's history also raises questions about its original goals and execution.
"The element of nation building eroded and it became a place for the cronies of the leaders to get projects. It looked as if they were trying to reduce cost for more profit," remarked Mohd Mahadee Ismail.
Yet, some former participants found value in its egalitarian nature.
"Rich or poor, there was no difference between anyone," reflected Sue Haizal.
As Malaysia embarks on this renewed national service journey, it faces both optimism and skepticism from various quarters.
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