KUALA LUMPUR: Bullying and provocation could be an issue among trainers in the National Service Training Programme (NS) 3.0, according to findings by the Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC) on Security.
The PSSC said that even though the trial run of NS 3.0 would not involve a “junior-senior” relationship among participants, there were still concerns that bullying and provocation could take place.
“There are concerns that bullying or provocation may happen among trainers.
“24-hour supervision by trainers and the installation of CCTVs is being planned to address this issue,” said the PSSC in its report tabled in Parliament on Thursday (Dec 12).
The PSSC said the recruitment of trainers in NS 3.0 must take into consideration the criminal records of applicants.
“Trainers with misdemeanour records can be accepted. But, those involved in serious crime, or have an ongoing court case, will not be allowed to join the programme,” said the PSSC.
The PSSC said it tabled its findings to the Defence Ministry and they were informed that the NS 3.0 was being thoroughly planned to ensure a harmonious and conducive environment to prevent bullying and ragging cases.
“Coaches will be given 24-hour supervision by staying with trainers themselves and they will be supported by policies and rules that can ensure the wellbeing of all throughout the programme,” it said.
The PSSC also said the ministry had given a commitment that in future, prospective trainers will be required to go through a security background check before they apply to join the NS 3.0.
Last Thursday (Dec 5), the PSSC on Nation Building, education and Human Resources Development recommended Putrajaya not to proceed with NS 3.0, as more studies should be conducted before it is revived.
The PSSC on Nation Building, Education and Human Resources Development said the programme has had no clear objectives since it was first implemented in 2004.
Meanwhile, the PSSC said its findings found that the RM8 daily allowances given to trainers does not suffice.
“The rate is too low and we also gave suggestions to increase the rate,” it said.
“Putrajaya should consider increasing the allowances in view of the rise in cost of living and it can also incentivise trainers to participate in National Service,” it added.
The PSSC also said the module syllabus for NS 3.0 should be evaluated from time to time to ensure that its implemented objectives are met.
“Concerns were raised that frequent module changes will affect consistency and effectiveness of the programme,” it said.
The committee also said the module syllabus was being drafted by the Higher Education Ministry to ensure that the subject of “nationhood” would be streamlined with public higher education institutions (IPTAs) across the country.
The PSSC also said it would monitor the implementation of the NS 3.0, including its trial runs.
“The PSSC on Security will act as a check-and-balance body in the NS 3.0, to ensure transparency and programme efficiency,” it added.
The Defence Ministry wwill carry out a 14-day trial run for the NS 3.0 involving 200 male volunteers from Jan 12 next year.
The trial run is open to all Malaysian men aged between 18 and 20 and they have until Nov 23 to apply via the ministry website at mod.gov.my.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin previously said the revamped National Service programme would be implemented in stages in June or July 2025.
