He said all groups were given the space to voice out suggestions previously.
“Why are they raising this issue now? What kind of programme would they suggest to instil patriotism among youths?” he told reporters after launching a logo for Perkasa Perwira here today.
Earlier, he spoke to hundreds of armed forces personnel at Wisma Perwira. He also had a “live” session with troops from Lumut, Kluang and Butterworth.
The Umno vice-president was referring to the National Patriots Association (Patriots), which had said that the NS programme had failed partly because it was handled by inexperienced personnel.
According to Major (Rtd) Ismail Jr Feisol patriotism is about love for our country.
“All these institutions try to do military-related things, but they don’t have the experience. With due respect, NS has failed to instil (patriotism) in our youth,” the Patriot member told FMT on the sidelines of a press conference yesterday.
In response, Hishammuddin said the NS programme was undergoing a transformation as it had started again after a 10-year lapse.
“For someone who has not given suggestions, I think it is a case of double standards for them to raise this issue now.
“We have given them the space to give suggestions before but there was nothing,” he said, adding that his ministry was open to constructive suggestions.
Hishammuddin said he believed that Patriots was just one of the many groups going all out to influence the minds of army, navy and air force members to go against the government.
“The government has implemented various policies to improve the lives of members of the armed forces. For example, dialysis treatment costs RM600 per week but it is given for free to armed forces personnel.
“Also, their houses were upgraded and education is provided for free to their children and grandchildren,” he said, adding that the ministry also looks into their living expenses.
Hishammuddin criticised this sort of “politics of hatred”.
“Anyone wanting to take advantage of the situation can do it through social media.
“There seems to be more traction for hatred. But there is also political fatigue, which can be seen in the ceramahs,” he said.