Disagreement over RM50 Million Allocation for National Service Training Programme
Criticism of Moratorium on National Service Training Programme
Former Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan has expressed his disagreement with the government’s plan to revive the national service training programme (PLKN) next year with an allocation of RM50 million in the 2025 budget. According to Shahril, this move would be better off spent on initiatives aimed at forging unity among primary school students.
Integrating Children in Schools for Unity
Shahril suggested that Putrajaya focus on integrating children in schools, potentially through a programme like the student integration plan for unity (Rimup). This, he believes, would be more effective in achieving unity among Malaysian youths rather than waiting until they are 18 years old to meet in PLKN.
Limited Funds for National Service Training Programme
His co-host, former minister Khairy Jamaluddin, shared Shahril’s sentiment, stating that the RM50 million allocated for PLKN would likely cause murmurings among Malaysians. He noted that this amount was a mere 10% of the RM500 million allocated to the programme in the past, and that some people may view it as just a start, with the figure rising further in the coming years.
Criticism of Education Ministry’s Budget
Separately, Khairy expressed his concerns about the education ministry’s budget, which saw a record allocation of RM64.1 billion. While he acknowledged that physical initiatives, such as upgrades and maintenance of education facilities, were important, he believed that the budget lacked imagination and initiatives aimed at improving the education system’s pedagogy.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding the allocation of funds for the national service training programme highlights the need for a more effective and targeted approach to unity building among Malaysian youths. While the government’s plan to revive PLKN may have its merits, critics argue that a more grassroots approach, focusing on integrating children in schools, may yield better results. As the education system continues to evolve, it is crucial that policymakers prioritize initiatives that promote unity, inclusivity, and pedagogical innovation.
FAQs
Q: What is the national service training programme (PLKN)?
A: PLKN is a programme aimed at fostering unity among Malaysian youths.
Q: Why is Shahril Hamdan opposed to the revival of PLKN?
A: Shahril believes that the RM50 million allocated to PLKN could be better spent on initiatives aimed at forging unity among primary school students.
Q: What is the goal of the national service training programme?
A: The goal of PLKN is to foster unity among Malaysian youths.