Plkn 3 0 Emphasise Civics More Than Physical Training Govt Told

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More emphasis should be given to civics, rather than physical training, in the new iteration of the National Service Training Programme (PLKN), MCA said.
Party deputy youth chief Mike Chong also proposed the module of the programmes to be thoroughly studied before implementation, to ensure it was effective in achieving its goal.
"Although it is good for the programme to be revived, various aspects should be thoroughly studied so that the implementation will be effective.
"The public perception (that the programme is a) 'military training module' should be handled wisely, as not all parents would want their children to undergo tough military-type training.
“The relevant modules should be assessed and scrutinised, after consulting parents or guardians of the students," Chong said in a statement today.
He was responding to the remark by Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof yesterday that the PLKN will include 90 percent military-type training and 10 percent civics.
MCA deputy youth chief Mike ChongHarian Metro reported him as saying that this was necessary to create gallant and patriotic youths in the country.
Yesterday, Defence Minister Mohamad Hasan said the government will revive PLKN, which was stopped in 2018 by the Pakatan Harapan administration.
He also said the programme will see over 20,000 youths undergoing training at existing military camps for 45 days.
Battle extremism, polarisation
Elaborating, Chong said that the 90 percent military training ratio to 10 percent civics was clearly imbalanced.
"The main goal should be to produce a patriotic generation that loves the country and is united across all races and religions, rather than focusing on the participants' physical condition and stamina.
"In addition, programme participants who have the potential and interest to join uniformed bodies after the completion of their services, should be given the chance to be absorbed into the forces, without having to undergo bureaucracy," said Chong.
He also hoped that the special committee formed by the Defence Ministry would find solutions to the problems faced by the previous instalments of PLKN so that there would not be a recurrence.
Meanwhile, an Amanah Youth leader also lauded the return of the PLKN, calling it a timely guard against the rising racial polarisation and extremism.
Committee member Fadhli Umar Aminolhuda said the situation has become such, especially after last year's 15th general election.
Amanah Youth committee member Fadhli Umar Aminolhuda"Amanah Youth thinks that PLKN 3.0 should be the main fort to battle against extremism and racial polarisation.
"The Defence Ministry should emphasise on Racial Unity Module, in tandem with military-style training which would help improve the youths' discipline and self-identity.
"This is because unity is one of the biggest issues faced by the country today, and the government should find an immediate solution to the problem. - Mkini

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