KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 11 — The National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 next year, to be coordinated by the Education Ministry and Defence Ministry, will prioritise those who were cadets in school.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim posted on Facebook that the matter was decided at the meeting of Lembaga Tatakelola Dewan Kenegaraan, which he chaired today.
“One of the issues raised at the meeting was the status of the PLKN 3.0 implementation, which will start in 2025, with me emphasising the importance of the programme being implemented carefully and improving the approach to suit the current situation.”
Among those who attended the meeting were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.
Anwar said that, through the meeting, he was also informed about the progress of the implementation of the programme to build understanding and appreciation of the meaning of nationhood, which is very important to every Malaysian.
He said this was important so the programme produces a generation of young Malaysians who have high resilience, tenacity to endure life’s challenges, and ability to contribute to the country as responsible citizens.
“On the role of every citizen in building a nation, it is vital that comprehensive efforts be mobilised to strengthen identity, the strength of commitment to jointly develop the country and the readiness to defend our beloved homeland,” he said.
Previously, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the ministry will carry out a 14-day trial run for PLKN 3.0, involving 200 male volunteers, from January 12 next year.
The trial run, to be held at the 515th Territorial Army Regiment in Kuala Lumpur, is open to all Malaysians aged between 18 and 20.
— Bernama
