The National Service Training Programme (PLKN) in Malaysia is making a comeback through a pilot project involving 200 young participants aged between 18 and 20. These individuals, who have voluntarily applied, will commence their training at a territorial army camp in Kuala Lumpur. The programme, spanning 45 days, aims to instill a sense of patriotism, resilience, and volunteerism among Malaysia's youth. However, questions linger about its current implementation strategy and long-term sustainability.
A recent survey conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (MIDAS) indicates strong public support for the programme. Out of 3,092 respondents aged between 16 and 60, an overwhelming 87 percent agreed that the programme should be extended. This strong backing highlights the public's desire to see PLKN become a fixture of national development.
The revamped PLKN 3.0 plans to train 25,000 trainees per intake across four annual recruitment cycles. The training will unfold in three distinct phases: Pre-PLKN, basic training, and specialised training. The pre-national training phase will engage Form Four students through co-curricular activities at schools. Meanwhile, individuals aged 17 to 35 will participate in the specialised training phase, which involves intensive fieldwork and practical components. Volunteer bodies such as the Auxiliary Police, Auxiliary Fire Brigade, and Civil Defence Force will oversee this phase.
The government will cover an average daily cost of RM64 per participant. While the programme seeks to foster national pride and patriotism, clarity around its implementation remains elusive. More comprehensive studies are deemed necessary before full-scale execution.
PLKN's history dates back to its inception in 2004 when it was first introduced as a compulsory three-month training programme for randomly selected individuals aged 18 and above. Sue Haizal, a former participant, recalls her initial apprehension.
"I didn't want to go. I was terrified of ragging and was worried I wouldn't be able to endure it,” shared Sue Haizal.
However, her perspective shifted after completing the programme.
"It wasn't as bad as some made it out to be. In fact, it was the opposite,” she added.
Saifuddin Abdullah, a prominent political figure, has expressed concerns about the lack of clear objectives stemming from legacy issues with previous national service programmes.
"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,” Saifuddin Abdullah remarked.
He also highlighted potential budgetary challenges for the future.
"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,” Saifuddin added.
For many participants, national service offers an opportunity for personal growth. Mohd Syafik Mohd Taufik recounted his transformative experience.
"I was an introvert and didn’t have much confidence, but I believe this improved after the national service,” Mohd Syafik Mohd Taufik shared.
Ahmad Fakhrulah Shari emphasized the role of national service in fostering social integration.
"There are trainees who had never spoken to people of other races before but they made friends with people of other races and opened up their minds,” Ahmad Fakhrulah Shari noted.
Yet, he also pointed out deficiencies in post-training follow-up.
"After our training is over there is no follow-up and no structure to it. That’s why people say it is a waste of money,” Ahmad Fakhrulah Shari commented.
Major-General Ya’cob Samiran underscored the programme's unique value in imparting discipline and organization.
"The national service is not to make the attendees into soldiers but for them to undergo a regimented life. They will have to wake up early and do things. They will be more punctual and have a more organised life where they are. It is a unique experience that they won’t be able to get anywhere else,” Major-General Ya’cob Samiran explained.
Mohd Mahadee Ismail criticized past iterations for deviating from nation-building goals.
"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,” Mohd Mahadee Ismail articulated.
As PLKN gears up for expansion in July with 500 new recruits and full implementation slated for next year, it remains crucial for program architects to address existing challenges. Ensuring clear objectives and follow-up mechanisms will be key to cementing PLKN's role in fostering a cohesive and patriotic Malaysian society.
Leave a Reply