Latest news with #Ya'cobSamiran
The Star
7 days ago
- 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
12-06-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
Govt refining efforts to officially recognise PLKN 3.0 certificate
PEKAN: The government is currently refining efforts to officially recognise the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 certificate as a benefit for trainees in gaining admission to higher learning institutions or to secure employment. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul said the matter was discussed with the National Service Training Department director-general Major General Datuk Ya'cob Samiran. 'This is a credential that can be accepted by all parties, not just the government but also society at large. (With this certificate) we can confirm that the trainee has been exposed to a range of knowledge upon completing the PLKN training,' he said. He said this in a press conference after attending a dialogue session with PLKN trainees at the 505 Territorial Army Regiment Camp here today. Johari also said that the outcome of the discussions is expected to be announced soon. 'We are working with the Public Service Department and several other parties to ensure that the certificate we issue carries merit. Otherwise, it will be just another ordinary certificate -- we want it to have value,' he added. Meanwhile, Ya'cob said several PLKN 3.0 trainees have successfully qualified to join the Malaysian Armed Forces and will begin training in the next intake at the Basic Army Training Centre. 'If we look at the previous intake, around 60 per cent of those who participated in PLKN 3.0 chose to serve in uniformed forces, either in the regular or reserve units,' he also said.
Malaysiakini
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Malaysiakini
Govt refining efforts to recognise National Service 3.0 certificate: Johari
The government is currently refining efforts to officially recognise the National Service Training Programme 3.0 certificate as a benefit for trainees in gaining admission to higher learning institutions or to secure employment. Dewan Rakyat speaker Johari Abdul said the matter was discussed with the National Service Training Department director-general, Major General Ya'cob Samiran.
New Straits Times
11-05-2025
- General
- New Straits Times
Same training modules for all NS trainees despite gender-based camp separation
KUALA LUMPUR: All trainees under the National Service Training Programme 3.0 Series 2/2025, which begins today, will undergo the same training modules, despite being placed in two separate camps based on gender. National Service Training Department director-general, Major General Datuk Ya'cob Samiran said male trainees are based at the 505 Territorial Army Regiment Camp in Pekan, Pahang, and female trainees are at the 515 Territorial Army Regiment Camp here. "There is no difference in the training content. Any variation will only relate to the physical capabilities and health conditions of the individual trainees. "Physical training will be conducted in stages and based on increasing levels of difficulty," he said during a media briefing after observing the registration of female trainees at the 515 Territorial Army Camp today. He added that the core structure of the training modules has been retained, with several enhancements made. "The training modules are still 70 per cent military-based and 30 per cent national identity components, with slight enhancements in execution through more hands-on practical sessions," he said. Commenting on today's registration process, Ya'cob said that 550 trainees, comprising 350 males and 200 females, are expected to take part in this session of the national service training, which runs for 45 days until June 24. He said the registration process is expected to take two to three days, as many trainees have requested late registration due to issues such as camp location or personal preparedness. Ya'cob added that the national service training is open to accepting voluntary trainees, subject to available slots, and confirmed that 30 voluntary participants have already registered. Previously, 116 trainees completed the 3.0 Series 1/2025, which ran for 45 days from Jan 12 to Feb 25 at the 515 Territorial Army Regiment Camp. Taking place after a seven-year suspension, it involved 73 male and 43 female trainees aged between 18 and 25. The gradual reintroduction of the national service programme aims to foster patriotism, national unity and personal resilience among Malaysian youth, while equipping them with the physical and mental fortitude to face life's challenges.
The Star
11-05-2025
- The Star
National Service 3.0: All trainees to undergo same training modules regardless of gender, says D-G
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 344 trainees have reported for the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 Series 2/2025, which began on Sunday (May 11). Although placed in two separate camps based on gender, all trainees will undergo the same training modules. National Service Training Department (JLKN) director-general Datuk Ya'cob Samiran said male trainees are based at the 505 Territorial Army Regiment Camp in Pekan, Pahang, while female trainees are stationed at the 515 Territorial Army Regiment Camp in Kuala Lumpur. 'There is no difference in the training content. Any variation will be based on the physical capabilities and health of individual trainees. 'Physical training will be conducted in stages, with increasing levels of difficulty,' he said during a media briefing after observing the registration of female trainees at the 515 Territorial Army Camp today. He added that the core structure of the training modules has been retained, with several enhancements introduced compared to PLKN 3.0 Series 1/2025. Among the improvements is the separation of trainees by gender into two dedicated camps, while maintaining the same training framework—30% nation-building and 70% basic military training. He also noted that trainees who have yet to report still have until noon on May 16 to do so. 'Those who fail to report by the deadline may be referred to the Legal Division under Section 18(1) of the National Service Training Act 2003 (Act 628),' he added. The registration process is expected to take two to three days, as many trainees have requested late registration due to camp location or personal readiness. He said the new structure also mandates military-style uniforms, and the training period has been reduced from three months to 45 days. "University-bound students will complete their training at their institutions, but passing the course remains a compulsory national service requirement. "Parents and the public are assured that the revamped PLKN 3.0 offers a safe, meaningful experience, free from issues such as bullying," he added. The programme aims to build character, instil confidence, and foster civic responsibility among youth. Ya'cob also confirmed that JLKN is open to accepting voluntary participants, subject to available slots, adding that 30 volunteers have already registered. Following a seven-year suspension, the current intake includes 206 male and 138 female trainees aged between 18 and 25.
