PLKN 3.0, to be implemented from January next year, will involve youths aged between 16 and 35, up from the previous age baseline of 18.
Joel Shasitiran, a creative writer who participated in 2007, said the programme had instilled in him discipline and fostered a deeper appreciation of Malaysia’s diversity. However, he said it may not be practicable for those aged above 21.
Now 35, he said the idea of going camping or being subjected to marching drills today “does not intrigue me at all”.
“Beyond physical capabilities, many adults aged 21 and older often have other commitments and plans,” he told FMT.
Another former trainee, Kamal Abdullah Salim Ahmed, agreed that it was unrealistic to extend the age range. He said those above the age of 21 tend to have other responsibilities, especially in terms of work and family.
The 33-year-old auditor said he enjoyed the taste of military life during his stint in 2008 but believes it lacked intensity.
“Camping was only done over one weekend throughout the span of three months. (More) rigorous activity would make participants more resilient and disciplined,” he said.
Another former participant, who wished to be known as Naga, said that while the programme’s extended age range would bring together a more diverse set of participants, power hierarchies may form in camps and within contingents as a result.
“Unless the older participants insist otherwise, they are likely to become the heads of their teams and will need to deal with the recklessness of younger participants,” she said.
Various groups have criticised efforts to revive the programme, with a parliamentary committee recently urging the government against a relaunch due to its vague objectives and potentially high costs.
Indera Mahkota MP Saifuddin Abdullah said the government could achieve the same positive outcomes it expects from PLKN 3.0 through existing programmes at educational institutions.
A place of growth
A former trainee, Ann, who underwent the programme at a base in Sabah, said PLKN has been an essential part of her personal growth. She said participants can expect to develop their social skills during the programme.
“I’d recommend it for those who want to experience a strict schedule once in their life, and for those who struggle to socialise. PLKN also gave me some lifelong friends,” she told FMT.
Meanwhile, Naga said the programme would help trainees foster humility and resilience.
“Be excited to live on very minimalistic terms. Those days, a bag of (snacks) would make us so happy,” she said.
Joel highlighted the programme’s potential societal benefits, especially for youths lacking patriotism.
“It can also teach youths discipline and prepare them for the world, especially when they are fresh out of school,” he said.
On Dec 20, deputy defence minister Adly Zahari said the first phase of PLKN 3.0 was ready for launch in January and will involve 200 male SPM leavers.
He said the programme will serve as a trial run, with a second phase in June expected to involve students from higher learning institutions.