The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has announced a 14-day trial run for the revamped National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0, set to begin on January 12, 2025. This trial will involve 200 male volunteers and will take place at the 515th Territorial Army Regiment camp in Kuala Lumpur.
According to Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, the trial aims to evaluate and refine the new training syllabus and modules in preparation for the official launch of PLKN 3.0 in June next year.
Adly emphasized that the trial run will serve as an opportunity to improve the programme based on past experiences:
"We have a small window for the trial period its to assess the effectiveness of the (PLKN) training syllabus and modules and perhaps make improvements because we have a lot of experience running the PLKN previously," he explained.
The trial run is open to Malaysian men aged 18 to 20, who can register via the Mindef website until November 23, 2024.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has stated that PLKN 3.0 will operate under a new concept and format, with implementation starting in June or July 2025.
The programme will consist of two key phases:
1. Pre-PLKN Phase: Targeted at Form Four students, this phase will be conducted during co-curricular activities.
2. Basic PLKN Phase: Aimed at individuals aged 17 and above, this phase will integrate 30% basic national service modules and 70% basic military training.
The Basic PLKN Phase is scheduled to begin in April 2026, with training sessions conducted at 13 Territorial Army camps, 20 public universities, and selected polytechnics across Malaysia.
With these enhancements, Mindef aims to ensure PLKN 3.0 not only instills patriotism and discipline among the youth but also provides comprehensive military exposure. Adly expressed confidence that the trial run would help streamline preparations and ensure the programme's readiness by the mid-2025 launch.
For those eager to volunteer, this trial phase offers a chance to shape the future of Malaysia's national service.
Source: Malaymail
