KUALA LUMPUR: The money needed for the reintroduced National Service Training Programme 3.0 could be better used for other more pressing purposes, says an MP.
While debating the Supply Bill 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat, Chow Yu Hui (PH-Raub) questioned its effectiveness in fostering patriotism.
Chow said between 2004 and 2018, the government spent RM8.4bil on the programme, with ongoing concerns about its implementation, effectiveness and cost.
"The National Service programme requires a substantial budget and given the current economic situation – with the nation still recovering from the pandemic, facing high costs of living, and inflation pressures – wouldn't it be better to allocate these funds to critical sectors like education, health and economic empowerment?" he asked.
He also questioned if reinstating the programme, which was halted in 2018, would truly add value for youth or if it would merely become a routine programme with little impact.
He expressed doubts about whether the large expenditure would have significant positive outcome.
Chow also voiced concerns about its impact on students and graduates as they would not be exempt from the two-month programme, potentially affecting their studies or income.
He urged the government to reconsider its necessity and explore more cost-effective initiatives to support youth development without straining the national budget.
Recently, the Defence Ministry said that National Service Training Programme 3.0 would have initial costs of RM50mil and rolled out in phases starting January 2024.
