In Kuala Lumpur, Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin stated that the proposed National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 may not involve school-going children, in response to concerns raised by parents about potential harsh military-like training for teens.
The Defence Minister mentioned that the programme could possibly target school leavers instead of those currently in school, and assured that considerations were being made to tailor the programme according to age groups.
Recent reports have highlighted worries from parents and stakeholders regarding issues such as bullying, sexual harassment, and racially motivated conflicts in relation to PLKN 3.0.
In the initial proposal, Form Four students were set to participate in the first phase of the programme, focusing on uniformed co-curricular activities related to the police, firefighters, and scouts.
The second phase would involve a 45-day training period, with 90% of the training centered on basic military activities and the remaining 10% focused on nation-building aspects.
Khaled mentioned that discussions are still ongoing and the programme will be divided into two components – nationalism and military training.
He also specified that the curriculum for nationalism would involve collaboration with the National Unity Ministry, emphasizing unity and community-based issues.
The military aspect of the programme will be under the purview of the Defence Ministry, according to Khaled.
While ruling out the implementation of PLKN 3.0 this year, Khaled stated that a pilot project might commence this year as suggested by a member of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Security.
Overall, the Defence Minister is taking into account various viewpoints and concerns in shaping the upcoming National Service Training Programme to address the needs and considerations of participants.
