WHILE the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 aims to foster discipline, patriotism and unity among Malaysian youth, public concerns regarding safety, questions about the transparency of the selection process, and the timing of its implementation have become increasingly loud.
Citing transparency in selecting participants as a major issue, an MCA Youth leader recalled that in previous versions of the programme random selection had often led to confusion and demotivation particularly among those who felt unprepared for the experience.
“(PLKN 3.0’s) lack of clarity can create unease among parents and participants in the 16-35 range year old group,” its deputy chairman Mike Chong Yew Chuan stressed.
“To address this, PLKN 3.0 would benefit from offering a volunteer option for those genuinely interested in participating, as this could foster a more enthusiastic and engaged group.
“If a random selection remains the only option, it is crucial that the government publicly shares the selection criteria and process. This transparency will help build trust within the community and foster greater acceptance of the programme.”
Chong went on to list timing as another pressing concern, saying the decision to move the programme launch to January 2025 had raised fears of rushed preparations, potentially disrupting students’ academic studies and work structures.
Originally scheduled for mid-2025, this delay would have provided the government with more time to organise resources, plan activities carefully and address the public’s concerns more effectively.
“A later launch would also show respect for students’ educational commitments, allowing them for more preparation time to make future plans,” he added.
Given the country’s past experiences that underscore the need for robust health and safety measures, clear safety guidelines are also paramount to the success of PLKN 3.0.
Chong said standard operating procedures (SOPs) should therefore address critical areas such as medical screenings, emergency protocols, and food hygiene.
“It’s important for us not to treat these participants as army recruits, going a step further to truly ensure their safety and support to avoid negatively impacting their experience,” he stated.
“To that end, camps must be staffed with qualified medical personnel who can handle emergencies and provide ongoing health support.
“Furthermore, addressing issues such as bullying, harassment, and the availability of gender-segregated facilities is equally important.
“Additionally, providing trained counsellors and establishing a confidential complaint system will reassure trainees that their well-being is a priority.”
On Oct 26, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari announced that PLKN 3.0 will be implemented in stages from January 2025 and that an estimated 500 participants would be chosen for the first intake.
Adly also said PLKN 3.0 would target participants aged 16 to 35 from among students in Form Four, Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia leavers and students from institutions of higher learning. – Oct 29, 2024
Main image: Bebas News
