PLKN: An opportunity for the “lost generation” to reclaim their education and skills

SHAH ALAM - The revamped National Service Training Programme (PLKN) is poised to offer a second chance for youths disrupted by the pandemic, experts believe.

Suhakam Deputy Chairman Professor Datuk Noor Aziah Mohd Awal commended the government’s move to reintroduce PLKN, envisioning it as a recovery path for educational dropouts, particularly those affected during Covid-19.

“It’s presumed that the programme will continue targeting the 16 to 17 age group, a demographic that likely includes school dropouts from the pandemic era,” she said in an interview with Sinar Daily.

Noor Aziah expressed optimism about PLKN’s relaunch, highlighting its potential to re-engage those who have fallen through the educational cracks and missed university opportunities.

Statistics indicate a staggering 200,000 Malaysian students exited the educational system following the pandemic.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan recently revealed plans to reinstate PLKN in the coming year, tailored for individuals between 16 and 35 years.

However, he clarified that the initiative, dubbed PLKN 3.0, will initially enroll only those born in 2007.

In a related matter, Women's Aid Organisation (WAD) Head of Campaigns Marina Abdullah stressed the necessity of stringent measures when incorporating minors into the programme.

"We hope the government will be able to provide a more comprehensive and transparent explanation for the increase in the age limit for the programme.

"This transparency can facilitate a more open dialogue and space for feedback between the government, relevant organisations and the public," she said.

Marina also stressed that PLKN programme should be able to achieve specific prerequisites before even considering mixing adults with minors.

"Detailed guidelines, stringent conduct rules for adults, assured protection of minors’ rights, regular oversight, accessible reporting channels, customised support services, rigorous background checks, and extensive training in child protection and gender sensitivity for all participants and staff," she added.