Kuala Lumpur: Efforts must be made to counter the negative perception of the National Service Training Programme (PLKN), and parents have a role to play in promoting their children’s involvement, said National Service Training Council (MLKN) chairman General (Rtd) Tan Sri Dr Abdul Aziz Zainal. He emphasized the benefits of participating in the program, particularly in helping young individuals develop a strong personal identity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abdul Aziz highlighted the added value of the program, which includes basic military training, and reassured parents about the welfare of their children throughout the 45-day period. He noted that RM3,150 is allocated per trainee, excluding travel expenses, to ensure all needs are met.

Abdul Aziz urged parents to raise awareness and encourage their children’s participation in PLKN, which aims to guide them positively. He acknowledged that some may still be influenced by past stigma but asserted that the program has been improved to provide tangible benefits. His comments were made at a press conference following the PLKN 3.0 Series 2/2025 Passing-Out Parade, where a total of 257 male trainees completed their training.

The training began on May 11 at the 505th Territorial Army Regiment Camp, and Bartholomew Thierry Timothy from Papar, Sabah, was named the best trainee. Abdul Aziz noted that more than RM400 million has been allocated for the program’s success, including enhancements to camp facilities.

For Bartholomew Thierry, 18, the experience of being away from his family for 45 days was rewarding, as he was selected as the best trainee. He shared that PLKN instilled discipline and punctuality in him, which contributed to building his identity as a quality Malaysian with a positive outlook. Thierry, who plans to pursue a foundation in science at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), expressed his honor at being chosen and described how the program has bolstered his confidence.

Meanwhile, Zarimi Isa, 50, a former soldier and father of trainee Muhammad Hakim, 20, encouraged parents not to hesitate in sending their children to PLKN. He described the program as highly beneficial for the younger generation and relevant despite lasting only 45 days.