In November 2023, Malaysians were surprised by the news of the National Service Programme (PLKN) making a comeback. Defense Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hassan's announcement that the program would target youths aged 16 to 35 raised questions among many.
However, it was later clarified that only individuals born in 2007 would be eligible for the program, with selected trainees up to the age of 35 also being able to apply.
Read: Defense Minister Targets PLKN For Those Between 16-35 Years Old?!
However, as the program makes its comeback, its ambitious reintroduction is contingent upon the government's budget. While the previous program spanned three months, the latest iteration is set to undergo a reduction to 45 days. This revamped approach will resemble more of a summer camp experience than the traditional format.
The reintroduction of PLKN is slated for 2025, promising significant changes beyond just the format.
University Students Included In National Service
In today's Dewan Rakyat session, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari revealed that the ministry is in the final stages of refining the program's modules. They will soon conduct the last round of engagement sessions before relaunching NS next year.
He mentioned that the program will encompass secondary school students, university students, and young adults who are not pursuing higher education. Regarding participants, there will be an age limit set for those involved in NS3.0 to ensure the program's effectiveness. However, the specific age limit has not been disclosed yet, but it's speculated to be up to 35 years old for trainees.
Adly responded to a follow-up query from Major-General (Rtd) Datuk Khlir Mohd Nor (Perikatan Nasional-Ketereh) during the parliamentary session. Khlir asked Adly about the inclusion of school students in the NS3.0 program, as discussed in the Defence Select Committee meetings, noting that the minister had previously suggested it would involve youth rather than school students. Khlir also mentioned that their committee hadn't discussed this aspect and assumed that NS3.0 would involve school students.
Is National Service Too Harsh For Our Teenagers?
On another note, several concerned parents raised complaints about the perceived "harsh" module components for their children. Defense Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Khaled Nordin addressed these concerns, acknowledging the issue and assuring parents that the program's modules would be adjusted to suit the age of their children.
“We take note of parents’ concerns, and we tailor the module according to age. The NS3.0 may not involve those in schools,” he shared.
As of now, the National Service program appears to be proceeding as scheduled, barring any unforeseen obstacles. It will consist of two training components: an 80% military-focused training program and a 20% segment dedicated to national building and fostering patriotism. Furthermore, if the program is reinstated, it will likely be conducted at the 13 existing Territorial Army Regiment camps and one Police Training Center (Pulapol) nationwide.
The crucial question arises: How will the inclusion of university students in the program align with their academic calendars, given the varying schedules across different courses and the potential impact on exam timetables, especially for those following international standards like A Levels?
What are you’re your thoughts on university students being recruited for National Service? Let us know in the comments.
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, NST & various cross-references for context.
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