Defense Minister once more resists demands for the abandonment of PLKN 3.0 program.

Malaysia's Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Khaled, has announced the launch of the PLKN 3.0 (Program Latihan Khidmat Negara) – a revamped national service training program aimed at nurturing young Malaysians to support and connect with the armed forces.

During his speech while winding up the debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan for his ministry, Khaled emphasised that national defense is not the exclusive responsibility of the military, but requires the support and understanding of all citizens. He stated that the PLKN program fosters discipline and promotes greater participation in volunteer units like the Territorial Army, naval, and air force reserves.

However, Saifuddin Abdullah (PN-Indera Mahkota) has expressed concerns about the national service programme. Previously, he argued that the programme lacks clear objectives and measurable outcomes, and called for the government to drop it on Aug 6. It's important to note that the context of Saifuddin Abdullah's call to drop the national service programme is not directly linked to Khaled's statements about the PLKN program.

The first batch of PLKN 3.0, launched in January, consisted of 116 voluntary participants nationwide. Khaled also mentioned that nearly 150 PLKN 3.0 trainees have signed up for the Territorial Army, and 40 PLKN trainees have enlisted for training with the army. However, the PLKN 3.0 programme did not have any specific mentions of the number of trainees who signed up for the programme.

The PLKN program encourages public unity in defending the country. It comprises 30% nation-building modules and 70% basic military training. Khaled, who initiated the PLKN 3.0, made no specific mentions of trainees enlisting in the Territorial Army, naval, or air force reserves in his statements.

Saifuddin Abdullah, on the other hand, suggested that the funds for the national service programme should be directed towards education initiatives. The debate surrounding the PLKN 3.0 programme continues, with both parties presenting their perspectives on its benefits and drawbacks.