Minister of Defence once more dismisses demands to abandon Project PLKN 3.0
In a recent address to the Dewan Rakyat, former Defence Minister Khaled announced the purpose of Malaysia's National Service Training Programme (PLKN), particularly its current iteration PLKN 3.0. The programme aims to nurture disciplined, patriotic, and resilient young Malaysians who can support and connect with the armed forces while fostering greater public unity in national defence.
The programme, a mix of nation-building modules and basic military training, is designed to instill patriotism, discipline, and defence awareness as foundational values crucial for preserving the country’s security and sovereignty.
PLKN has seen significant participation in voluntary defence units. For instance, 148 PLKN 3.0 trainees have signed up for the Territorial Army (Askar Wataniah), and 40 have joined “Perajurit Muda” (young soldier/cadet) training. This contributes to addressing the gap between permanent and voluntary military personnel and promotes the concept that national defence is a collective responsibility involving the wider community, not just the armed forces.
The programme is viewed as a strategic national investment beyond physical training, also focusing on countering declines in patriotism, volunteerism, and national unity among youth. Despite criticisms and calls to scrap the programme in favor of other initiatives like education, the Defence Ministry defends PLKN as essential for building a security-conscious, unified, and disciplined citizenry ready to support Malaysia’s defence efforts.
The first batch of PLKN 3.0 participants underwent a programme comprising 30% nation-building modules and 70% basic military training. The programme was launched in January with 116 voluntary participants nationwide.
In conclusion, PLKN’s core aims are to develop discipline and patriotism in young Malaysians, enhance defence awareness and connect youth with the armed forces, encourage voluntary participation in territorial and reserve military units, and build a community-oriented approach to national security beyond the formal military establishment.
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