Latest news with #NationalServiceTrainingDepartment
The Star
25-06-2025
- General
- The Star
NURTURING PATRIOTISM AND UNITY
IN AN era where screens often dictate connections and global narratives intertwine with local identities, Malaysia aims to rekindle a sense of national pride and unity. The return of the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) marks a strategic move to imbue the next generation with the core values essential for Malaysia's progress and resilience. Mejar-Jeneral Datuk Ya'cob Samiran, the National Service Training Department (JLKN) director general, shared that the decision to reinstate the programme comes at a time when traditional notions of community and shared national identity face unprecedented challenges from a digitally saturated world. He said while technology bridges distances, it can inadvertently foster insular echo chambers, making the cultivation of genuine togetherness and unwavering patriotism a pressing national imperative. 'Today, all over the world, we are seeing a generational change where many people are glued to their gadgets. The influence of technology has changed the way people live and created a generation that has 'unbothered' attitudes,' he said. 'That's why bringing back PLKN is so important, so we can nurture a generation of leaders that is more disciplined and responsible, and has a sense of patriotism and nationalism.' The government's renewed commitment to PLKN is rooted in the belief that these values, often intangible and difficult to quantify, are the bedrock of a harmonious and progressive society. The reinstated programme, called PLKN 3.0, kicked off earlier this year on Jan 12 after a seven- year suspension. A total of 116 volunteer trainees, aged 17 to 25, participated in Series 1/2025. Series 2/2025 took place from May 11 to June 24, with a total of 444 trainees participating, comprising selected individuals and volunteers. The third series will be held from Sept 7 till Oct 21. Revamped modules Mej Jen Ya'cob explained that PLKN 3.0's structure was developed based on public feedback from several studies by local universities and the Defence Ministry's think-tank, the Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (Midas). 'The new training modules comprise 30% nation-building and 70% basic military training,' he said. 'The nation-building modules focus on three core principles: patriotism, volunteerism and unity. Conversely, the military- based training emphasises instilling core values like discipline, punctuality, organisation and independence. 'This new structure encompasses a four-phased approach, ensuring continuous engagement with national service principles from school up to adulthood.' Phase 1, known as pre-PLKN, is an introductory phase for Form 4 students, serving as a preparatory programme integrated into the school curriculum to familiarise them with PLKN 3.0. Phase 2 involves the nation-building and basic military training. Those who complete this phase will be officially recognised as members of the National Service Force (AKN). In phase 3, AKN members will proceed to specialised training, organised by various government agencies. This phase will equip members with skills and knowledge to perform volunteer duties, contributing to national needs and community service. Finally, in Phase 4, AKN members will act as volunteers to assist government agencies and ministries, to demonstrate their commitment and readiness to serve the nation in times of need. Changing misconceptions Addressing past concerns regarding trainee well-being, Mej Jen Ya'cob highlighted enhanced safety measures, including comprehensive CCTV surveillance. 'We have over 50 cameras in each camp to monitor the trainees around the clock,' he said. 'Trainees are also allowed to bring their handphones with them into camp, and can video call their parents or loved ones during their free time. This way, parents can see what the conditions are like in camp, getting rid of any anxiety they may have.' He added that male and female trainees are also separated to prevent any social issues arising. Currently, two main camps are being utilised. Male trainees are placed at the 505 Territorial Army Camp in Pekan, Pahang, while females are based at the 515 Territorial Army Camp in Kuala Lumpur. Beyond training, PLKN 3.0 also aims to be more flexible, providing pathways for trainees to pursue their education and careers, both during and post-training. Recognising the diverse aspirations and academic commitments of youth, the flexible module system allows participants – particularly those pursuing higher education, vocational training or careers in national safety – to integrate national service seamlessly into their schedules without disrupting their studies. This flexibility is critical in ensuring broad participation and minimising potential conflicts with educational pathways, addressing a key concern from previous iterations. Mej Jen Ya'cob shared that numerous trainees from Series 2/2025 were allowed to leave the camp to attend potential job or study placement interviews. 'After completing the second phase, trainees are allowed to choose whether to carry on with their training, further their studies or jump into their careers, and we will help to facilitate wherever we can,' he said. 'This way, their time in the training camps will not be wasted and they won't have to 'start from scratch'. 'We are not trying to hold them back. The purpose of PLKN is to train them to face future challenges with confidence and shape them into useful citizens who can contribute to the country and safeguard the nation.' For info, visit
The Sun
16-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
PLKN 3.0 Series 3/2025 trainee intake status verification opens tomorrow
KUALA LUMPUR: Applicants for the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 Series 3/2025 may verify their intake status starting tomorrow at 10 am. The National Service Training Department (JLKN) in a statement today said the intake status can be checked via the department's official website or PLKN 3.0 link at To ensure a smooth registration and administrative process, selected trainees are required to confirm their attendance via the same link by July 11. 'For further information, please contact the Trainee Unit, Training Sector, JLKN at 03-4013 (Extensions: 3612/3613/3614/3604/3603/3626) or visit the website at the statement said. PLKN 3.0 Series 3/2025 will run from Sept 7 to Oct 21, involving two Territorial Army regiment camps; the 515th Regiment in Kuala Lumpur and 505th Regiment in Pekan, Pahang. Previously, a total of 550 trainees, comprising 350 male and 200 female trainees took part in PLKN 3.0 Series 2/2025 which is scheduled to conclude on June 24.
Barnama
16-06-2025
- General
- Barnama
PLKN 3.0 Series 3/2025 Trainee Intake Status Verification Opens Tomorrow
KUALA LUMPUR, June 16 (Bernama) -- Applicants for the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 Series 3/2025 may verify their intake status starting tomorrow at 10 am. The National Service Training Department (JLKN) in a statement today said the intake status can be checked via the department's official website or PLKN 3.0 link at To ensure a smooth registration and administrative process, selected trainees are required to confirm their attendance via the same link by July 11.
The Star
16-06-2025
- The Star
National Service 3.0 absentees under scrutiny, may face legal action, says deputy minister
MELAKA: The National Service Training Department is currently assessing and reviewing the reasons given by candidates who did not turn up for the National Service Training Programme 3.0 Series 2 of 2025, which kicked off on May 11. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said a report on this matter will be presented to the ministry soon for further action, as attendance for selected individuals in the second series is mandatory. "Yes, there are indeed several (individuals) who did not show up, and at present, we are receiving and reviewing all the reports in detail regarding their reasons for absence. "JLKN will present the findings to the Defence Ministry soon. Essentially, this process is to raise awareness that once selected, it is mandatory for them to register, and we have provisions under the law to act on this," he told a press conference after officiating the Pingat Jasa Malaysia (PJM) award ceremony at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC), Ayer Keroh here Monday (June 16). He said a review of the reasons is currently underway, as trainees' attendance is governed by Section 18(1) of the National Service Training Act 2003 and that selected individuals who failed to attend without a valid excuse may face legal consequences, including a fine of up to RM3,000, imprisonment for a maximum of six months, or both. It was previously reported that 344 PLKN 3.0, Series 2/2025 trainees had reported for 45 days of training between May 11 and June 24. Out of this number, 206 male trainees and 138 female trainees reported at Rejimen 505 (AW) Camp, Force 136 Camp in Pekan, Pahang, and Rejimen 515 (AW) Camp, Jalan Buku Lima, Kuala Lumpur. "So far, the main reasons for trainee absences that we have received are related to health, employment, and furthering studies. We are trying to improve related aspects to ensure 100% attendance for every session of the programme," he said. At the ceremony earlier, 1,000 veterans from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), along with widows and heirs of veterans from Melaka and Negri Sembilan, were presented with the PJM. The award honours the bravery and sacrifice of military personnel in fulfilling their duties to the nation. As of March, 48,346 MAF veterans who met the requirements have received the PJM. The award has been coordinated by the MAF's Veterans Affairs Department since March 2004. - Bernama
The Sun
16-06-2025
- The Sun
PLKN 3.0 absentees under scrutiny, may face legal action
MELAKA: The National Service Training Department (JLKN) is currently assessing and reviewing the reasons given by candidates who did not turn up for the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 Series 2 of 2025, which kicked off on May 11. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said a report on this matter will be presented to the ministry soon for further action, as attendance for selected individuals in the second series is mandatory. 'Yes, there are indeed several (individuals) who did not show up, and at present, we are receiving and reviewing all the reports in detail regarding their reasons for absence. 'JLKN will present the findings to the Ministry of Defence soon. Essentially, this process is to raise awareness that once selected, it is mandatory for them to register, and we have provisions under the law to act on this,' he told a press conference after officiating the Pingat Jasa Malaysia (PJM) award ceremony at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC), Ayer Keroh here today. He said a review of the reasons is currently underway, as trainees' attendance is governed by Section 18(1) of the National Service Training Act 2003 (Act 628) and that selected individuals who failed to attend without a valid excuse may face legal consequences, including a fine of up to RM3,000, imprisonment for a maximum of six months, or both. It was previously reported that 344 PLKN 3.0, Series 2/2025 trainees had reported for 45 days of training between May 11 and June 24. Out of this number, 206 male trainees and 138 female trainees reported at Rejimen 505 (AW) Camp, Force 136 Camp in Pekan, Pahang, and Rejimen 515 (AW) Camp, Jalan Buku Lima, Kuala Lumpur. 'So far, the main reasons for trainee absences that we have received are related to health, employment, and furthering studies. We are trying to improve related aspects to ensure 100 per cent attendance for every session of the programme,' he said. At the ceremony earlier, 1,000 veterans from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), along with widows and heirs of veterans from Melaka and Negeri Sembilan, were presented with the PJM. The award honours the bravery and sacrifice of military personnel in fulfilling their duties to the nation. As of March, 48,346 MAF veterans who met the requirements have received the PJM. The award has been coordinated by the MAF's Department of Veterans Affairs since March 2004.
