Mindef studying move to use ATM vets in NS programme

ALOR GAJAH: Various aspects are being fine-tuned in the move to revive the National Service Training Programme (PLKN).

Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the ministry was in the midst of identifying the number of army veterans needed for the programme so as to provide them with job opportunities.

“We have not decided on the number. We are looking at the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) veterans’ structure and the compatibility of their experience with the programme.

“Some of the ATM veterans are military trainers.

“We will provide training to other veterans (who are not military trainers) so that they can also become part of the PLKN trainers,” he said during a visit to the construction site of the Al-Bayan Academy Complex in Kampung Pegoh here yesterday.

Also present was Pertubuhan Akademi Al-Bayan Dr Nur Mohammad Hadi Zahalan, Bernama reported.

Adly said the ministry was always concerned with the welfare of ATM veterans.

He added new jobs were offered to those who qualified after their service was completed.

On Saturday, Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, who is also a National Veterans Council member, suggested that the implementation of the PLKN should involve ATM veterans to ensure the smooth running of the programme.

He said the veterans could serve as instructors or in other capacities at the PLKN camps to be held at selected military camps across the country.