The first cohort of trainees from Malaysia's revamped National Service Training Programme, known as PLKN 3.0, completed their rigorous 45-day training on February 25. This significant milestone follows the programme's latest iteration, which aims to produce quality, disciplined, and patriotic youths. The Deputy Defence Minister, Adly Zahari, praised the programme's success, emphasizing the ministry's commitment to addressing any potential shortcomings.
Malaysia initially introduced national service in 2004, mandating a three-month training period for randomly selected individuals aged 18 and above. However, the programme faced a halt in 2015 due to cost-cutting measures. It was reintroduced in the subsequent year with participation becoming optional by 2019.
PLKN 3.0 includes 116 trainees, comprised of 73 men and 43 women aged between 18 and 25. The trainees engaged in various activities such as abseiling and weapons training, all while prioritizing their well-being and health.
"The well-being and health of the trainees are always our priority." – Adly Zahari
The uniforms worn during Series 1/2025 will be reused for the upcoming Series 2/2025 and Series 3/2025 to ensure resource efficiency. Future series will expand intake to include 500 trainees each.
"We will ensure sufficient uniforms for future series. The uniforms used for Series 1/2025 will be reused for Series 2/2025, scheduled from May 11 to Jun 24, and Series 3/2025, which will run from Sep 7 to Oct 21."
Despite its successes, the revamped programme has encountered opposition. Nevertheless, trainees like Wong Wei Pin and Ivy Nurshafica Amaynie expressed positive experiences and personal growth through participation.
"The best experience of my life." – Wong Wei Pin
"I was studying law when the opportunity to join (PLKN 3.0) came about. I grabbed the chance to join as I knew it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." – Wong Wei Pin
"Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed using the M16 rifle during weapons training … However, other modules enhanced my skills, especially when speaking publicly." – Ivy Nurshafica Amaynie
Adly Zahari highlighted the diverse training modules which blend elements of nationhood with military instruction since January 12.
"Since Jan 12, the trainees have undergone various training modules consisting of aspects of nationhood and military training." – Adly Zahari
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