Malaysian National Service

The Malaysian National Service (Program Latihan Khidmat Negara (PLKN) since conception in 2003 has been plagued with 'problems' from reports of food poisoning, to sexual harassment, and various (8 actually) accidental deaths. 2 deaths per year are a pretty grim statistics.

The scheme costs the tax payer $1.69 billion(2000 est.) over RM5.4billion according to wikipedia (must be higher now with rising costs and increased trainees) .

Objectives are such as:
(1) Develop a young generation who are patriotic and with love for their country
(2) Enhance unity among the multi-racial communities in the country
(3) Instill a spirit of caring and volunteerism among society
(4) Produce an active, intelligent and confident generation
(5) Develop positive characteristics among the younger generation through good values
(6) Develop a generation that will always obey the current government

In reflection, this is a great concept for instilling good strong values in the young. Has it worked? I think not - especially not within the time span (3 months!) and money spent. Laundry - provided, food - provided, cleaning - provided. Great lesson in independence and responsibility indeed.

I personally like the German NS where men are obliged to serve nine months either in the military which they can refuse (conscientious objection), and do alternative civilian service, or 100 hours each year for six years in a civil protection organisation. The German community service and social support system (for the handicapped, or less fortunate) is very much dependent on the young German helping hands. But of course community service and benefits are almost non-existent in Malaysia. However, German model can be a much cheaper and efficient model to achieve the same objectives aimed for by the Malaysian model.

Many German friends speak 'fondly' of their civil service as the time they woke up to the realities of life. The teenage problems (such as lack of Nike shoes) pales in comparison to having trouble tying your own shoe-laces. And the young realise how it is like to grow old - years of sacrifice and nobody to care for you. We might all end up in their shoes one day.

Could the NS do with a revamping? I think 'Yes' and maybe they could look into successful NS in other countries (at a cheaper budget) before jumping into the deep end.