View source for National Service Training Programme (Malaysia)

{{Short description|Military service programme, 2002–2018}}
{{EngvarB|date=March 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2015}}
{{Infobox government agency
| agency_name     = National Service Training Department
| type            = Department
| seal            = 
| nativename      = ''Jabatan Latihan Khidmat Negara''<br>(JLKN)
| logo            = File:Program Latihan Khidmat Negara (PLKN).gif
| logo_width      = 
| logo_caption    = 
| formed          = {{start date and age|2002|10|30|df=y}}
| dissolved       = {{start date and age|2018|08|13|df=y}}
| jurisdiction    = [[File:Coat of arms of Malaysia.svg|20px]] [[Government of Malaysia]]
| headquarters    = Bangunan Zetro, 2-5, Jalan 9/27c, Wangsa Maju, 53300 Kuala Lumpur.
| employees       = 
| budget          = 
| coordinates     = 
| region_code     = MY
| minister1_name  = [[Mohamed Khaled Nordin]]
| minister1_pfo   = [[Minister of Defence (Malaysia)|Minister of Defence]]
| deputyminister1_name = [[Adly Zahari]]
| deputyminister1_pfo = Deputy Minister of Defence
| chief1_name     = 
| chief1_position = 
| chief2_name     = 
| chief2_position = 
| chief3_name     = 
| chief3_position = 
| chief4_name     = 
| chief4_position = 
| chief5_name     = 
| chief5_position = 
| chief6_name     = 
| chief6_position = 
| chief7_name     = 
| chief7_position = 
| chief8_name     = 
| chief8_position = 
| chief9_name     = 
| chief9_position = 
| parent_department = [[Ministry of Defence (Malaysia)|Ministry of Defence (MINDEF)]]
| child1_agency   = 
| website         = {{URL|plkn.mod.gov.my}}
| footnotes       = 
}}
{{Malaysian Armed Forces}}
The '''National Service Training Programme''', or '''Program Latihan Khidmat Negara (PLKN)''', known locally as the '''''Khidmat Negara''''' ("National Service") was [[Malaysia]]'s [[national service]] program under the [[Barisan Nasional]] (BN) government. The programme was handled  by the National Service Training Department, or ''Jabatan Latihan Khidmat Negara'' (JLKN) under the [[Minister of Defence (Malaysia)|Minister of Defence]] (MINDEF). The conscripts are 18-year-old youths that are selectively [[conscription|drafted]]. The three-month program, which started in December 2003, began as way to encourage friendship between youths of certain ages from different races and ethnic groups and address concerns that the country's multi-ethnic and multi-cultural groups who were seen of "becoming increasingly isolated from one another".<ref name=callup>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/3299271.stm |title=Malaysian youth face call-up |last=Kent |first=Jonathan |access-date=31 July 2008 |date=8 December 2003 |work=BBC News}}</ref>

The program was halted for one year in 2015 due to the federal government's efforts to cut spending.<ref name=halt>{{cite news |url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/why-cancel-national-service-if-its-so-important-ask-parents |title=Why cancel National Service if it's so important, ask parents |author=Anisah Shukry |access-date=25 February 2015 |date=21 January 2015 |newspaper=The Malaysian Insider |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150124015848/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/why-cancel-national-service-if-its-so-important-ask-parents |archive-date=24 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The program was reintroduced as PLKN 2.0 in 2016, with participation to be made fully optional by 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2015/05/29/ns-to-be-fully-voluntary-move-will-be-done-gradually-starting-from-2017-says-ministry/|title=NS to be fully voluntary - Nation {{!}} The Star Online|website=www.thestar.com.my|access-date=2017-12-14|date=29 May 2015}}</ref>

On 13 August 2018, Youth and Sports Minister [[Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman]] of the new federal government under [[Pakatan Harapan]] (PH) announced that the PLKN and [[National Civics Bureau]] (BTN) programmes were abolished, as he claimed they were being used for racial indoctrination.<ref>[https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2018/08/13/syed-saddiq-btn-and-national-service-are-abolished/ Syed Saddiq: BTN and National Service are abolished]</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.malaymail.com/s/1661883/syed-saddiq-btn-national-service-abolished |title=Syed Saddiq: BTN, National Service abolished |access-date=13 August 2018 |archive-date=13 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813064522/https://www.malaymail.com/s/1661883/syed-saddiq-btn-national-service-abolished |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==History==
The national service program, first proposed in late 2002, came to committee{{which|date=April 2014}} the following year, and was finally implemented in 2004. Initial proposals envisaged drafting all youths of a certain age, but later lack of resources led to restricting the numbers of the intake. The program, planned around a two-year program, was later reduced{{by whom|date=June 2013}} to a year, then to six months, and then to three months.

===Abolishment===
On 13 August 2018, [[Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman]], the Youth and Sports Minister of Malaysia announced that the National Service Training Programme will be abolished with immediate effect following a series of discussion in the cabinet meetings.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysias-national-service-programme-national-civics-bureau-abolished-says-youth-and|title=Malaysia's NS programme, National Civics Bureau abolished, says Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq|last=hermesauto|date=2018-08-13|work=The Straits Times|access-date=2018-08-14|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.malaymail.com/s/1661883/syed-saddiq-btn-national-service-abolished|title=Syed Saddiq: BTN, National Service abolished {{!}} Malay Mail|access-date=2018-08-14|language=en|archive-date=13 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813064522/https://www.malaymail.com/s/1661883/syed-saddiq-btn-national-service-abolished|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=http://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/national-service-training-civics-bureau-abolished-syed-saddiq|title=National Service Training, Civics Bureau abolished - Syed Saddiq|date=2018-08-13|work=The Edge Markets|access-date=2018-08-14}}</ref> 

The decision was made in view of PLKN and [[National Civics Bureau|BTN]] been misused by certain parties for misguided indoctrination.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thesundaily.my/news/2018/08/13/national-service-training-civics-bureau-abolished-syed-saddiq-updated|title=National Service Training, Civics Bureau abolished: Syed Saddiq (Updated)|website=www.thesundaily.my|language=en|access-date=2018-08-14}}</ref> He also announced plans to draft a replacement programme that would focus on shaping visionary youths, which will also be in line with the Federal Constitution and [[Rukunegara|Rukun Negara]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2018/08/13/syed-saddiq-btn-and-national-service-are-abolished/|title=Syed Saddiq: BTN and National Service are abolished - Nation {{!}} The Star Online|website=www.thestar.com.my|access-date=2018-08-14|date=13 August 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0" />

===Revival===
On 9 October 2023, [[Minister of Defence (Malaysia)|Defence Minister]] [[Mohamad Hasan (politician)|Mohamad Hasan]] announced in [[Dewan Rakyat|parliament]] that the National Service would be revived, albeit at a renewed and downscaled structure.<ref>https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-national-service-training-programme-plkn-revive-army-3833826</ref> The changes include a downsizing of the number of camps throughout the country to the existing 13 army camps and one police camp, a different training scheme with a three-phase process and a lower expenditure for the program. Mohamad said that the paperwork for the revival will need to be completed and presented to the [[National Security Council (Malaysia)|National Security Council]] for approval.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Basyir |first=Mohamed |last2=Sallehuddin |first2=Qistina |date=October 9, 2023 |title=National Service making a comeback, pending MKN approval |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/10/964717/national-service-making-comeback-pending-mkn-approval |website=New Straits Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Buang |first=Raveena Nagotra & Geraldine Tong, Shakira |date=2023-10-09 |title=National Service makes a comeback |url=https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/682026 |access-date=2023-10-09 |website=Malaysiakini}}</ref> In October 2024, it will be launched as National Service Training Programme (PLKN) 3.0 as a pilot program<ref>https://www.sinardaily.my/article/222404/focus/national/plkn-30-set-to-launch-with-rm50-million-allocation</ref> set to be done by June or July 2025.<ref>https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1074619/plkn-30-begin-mid-next-year</ref>

After various studies and public reactions regarding the re-establishment of the national service, the new Minister of Defence [[Mohamed Khaled Nordin]] finally announced that the PLKN had been activated and the trial session began on 12 January 2025 with age 18 to 25 years, to be carried out in stages until June of the same year by maintaining a percentage of 70 percent military training and 30 percent national module and inviting SPM graduates who have previously joined the school uniformed cadets. By January 2025, around 150 volunteers were registered for the program.<ref>https://themalaysianreserve.com/2025/01/12/150-volunteer-trainees-register-for-plkn-3-0-trial-period/</ref>

==Selection of conscripts==
In late December 2003, the names of 85,000 conscripts for the first National Service program was made public. The government announced that these youths were randomly selected out of the roughly 450,000 youths born in 1986, through a computerised process.<ref name=flop>{{cite web |url=http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Southeast_Asia/FE04Ae01.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040508034021/http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Southeast_Asia/FE04Ae01.html |url-status=unfit |archive-date=8 May 2004 |title=Malaysia's 3-month national service a flop? |date=4 May 2004 |access-date=31 July 2008 |last=Netto |first=Anil |publisher=Asia Times Online}}</ref> Conscripts are 18 years of age and picked from a national database that includes all citizens registered with a [[MyKad|Malaysian ID card]], whether born locally or overseas. Conscripts were informed of their participation in the program by mail at the address listed on their identification card. They are also able to check their status on the program's website, or by SMS. Lists of conscripts names and ID numbers are also published in major newspapers.

[[Desertion|Deserters]] and [[draft dodgers]] are subject to punishment of a fine of up to but not exceeding [[Malaysian ringgit|RM]] 3000, and/or up to six months of jail. Deferrals to a later date are allowed. Exclusion from the program requires that the conscript fall under one of the following ten categories:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.khidmatnegara.gov.my/kectang.htm |title=Postponement Application And Exemption Supply Trainee |access-date=31 July 2008 |publisher=Malaysian National Service |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080501165350/http://www.khidmatnegara.gov.my/kectang.htm <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = 1 May 2008}}{{in lang|ms}}</ref>
* [[Insanity]]
* Physically disabled
* Being held under preventive detention (such as the [[Internal Security Act (Malaysia)|Internal Security Act]])
* Undergoing [[drug rehabilitation]]
* Detained by the Children's Act of 2001 (Act 612)
* [[wikt:fatal|Fatal]] disease or condition, as confirmed by a medical officer.
* Contagious disease, as confirmed by a medical officer.
* Full-time member or full-time trainee of the [[Malaysian Armed Forces]], [[Royal Malaysian Police]], [[Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department]], [[Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency]] or [[Malaysian Prison Department|Prisons Department of Malaysia]].
* Pregnant women

Non selected civilians are also allowed to volunteer to enter the program after filling out certain forms in camps. During the first year pilot of the program, three teens from the north, Lee Poa Ting, [[Kevin Nyiau|Nyiau Kean Wei]], and Goh Liang Kia expressed disappointment for not being drafted, gaining widespread attention and becoming national news.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2003/12/12/three-teens-volunteer--to-be-ns-substitutes/ |date= December 13, 2003 |access-date=10 January 2017 |work=The Star Online|title= Three teens volunteer to be NS substitutes }}</ref> Since then, a voluntary option to participate was implemented.

===Objectives===
* Develop a young generation who are patriotic and with love and devotion for their country
* Enhance unity among the multi-racial communities in the country
* Instill a spirit of caring and volunteerism among society
* Produce an active, intelligent and confident generation
* Develop positive characteristics among the younger generation through good values
* Develop a generation that is obedient and loyal to the government

===Identity===
The program has its own theme song and logo. Conscripts are issued two pairs each of three different types of uniforms: a class uniform, a sports uniform, and a combat uniform. The combat uniform's design is of blue [[camouflage]] stripes, made out of light blue, dark blue, white, and black.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.henrikc.dk/camouflage/details.asp?autono=237 |title=Camouflage-Malaysia |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080430011628/http://www.henrikc.dk/camouflage/details.asp?autono=237 |archive-date=30 April 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The general color scheme for the class and sports uniforms is blue, and black. Criticisms{{by whom|date=December 2013}} against trainees' uniforms are apparent as blue clothes are easily spotted in jungles and verdant vegetation areas except the sky and water.

===Ranks in the National Service===
Conscripts exhibiting promising leadership capabilities are promoted to rank-holders during the early course of the training. These rank-holders are entrusted with military officer-like responsibilities and authorisations throughout the remaining course of the training. The ranking system however differs slightly among camps throughout the country according to each camp commandant.

Among the ranks available are:
* Chief: Leader of all conscripts in camp. 4 stripes
* Deputy Chief: Assistant to the Chief, usually 2–3 per camp. 3 stripes
* Company Commander (CC): Also known as Squad OC (Officer-in-Command), leader of a company. Usually 1 per gender for each company. 2 stripes
* Assistant Company Commander (ACC): Also known as Company Sergeant, assistant to the CC. Usually 1–2 to each CC. 1 stripes

Other ranks (varies from camp to camp, not all camps have the following officers):
* Public Relations Officer: Normally one for each camp.
* Religious Affairs Officer: Normally one for every major religion in the camp.
* Quarter Master: Normally one for each camp.
* Sports and Recreation Officer: Normally one for each camp.
* Dorm Administrator: One for each dorm.
* Logistics Personnel: One for each camp, as liaison between conscripts and the camp logistics department.

===Modules===
The program is split into four modules:
* Physical Module (Fizikal) – Marching (Kawad), hand-to-hand combat (Tempur Tanpa Senjata, largely similar to [[taekwondo]]), [[Colt's Manufacturing Company|Colt]] [[M16 rifle|M16]] usage,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.khidmatnegara.gov.my/download/borang%20latihan%20senjata.pdf |title=Weapons Training Form |access-date=31 July 2008 |publisher=Malaysian National Service |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090320002108/http://www.khidmatnegara.gov.my/download/borang%20latihan%20senjata.pdf |archive-date=20 March 2009 |df=dmy-all }}{{in lang|ms}}</ref> obstacle courses (Kembara Halangan), abseilling (Tali Tinggi), [[Flying fox (cablecar)|Flying Fox]], canoeing (Kayak), camping ("Wirajaya") (During Wirajaya, trainees will be also given mock missions such as: Search and rescue, night patrols, perimeter Guard, first aid and at night trainees have to guard their company flag from being stolen by instructors of other companies who would infiltrate their opponent companies' bases) Navigation (Navigasi), survival training and first aid training.
* Nation Building Module (Kenegaraan) – Classroom based. Nation's history, sovereignty and dignity, Malaysia and international affairs, Defence and National Security and Citizen's responsibility to the nation, and loyalty towards the current government, Barisan Nasional. The classes are based on group based training (Latihan Dalam Kumpulan).
* Character Building Module (Pembinaan Karakter) – Classroom based. It comprises 2 modules. The first one, Module A speaks about Bringing Out The Best In Me while the second module, Module B, relates to Bringing Out The Best In Others. This component is experential based and relies on games and activities as the means of teaching. It is about instilling good values and Self-confidence, leadership and self-evaluation.
* Community Service Module (Khidmat Komuniti) – Trainees are sent in groups to places in surrounding areas to give the trainees a chance to serve society. This is about building and restoring public amenities. It also teaches them environmental restoration and protection as well.

In the 2004 program, [[conscripts]] (referred to as "[[trainees]]" or "Wira" for boys and "Wirawati" for girls) spent 2 months in physical training camp, followed by a final month in a university setting. The program consisted of three separate, overlapping batches. The first batch of 24,000 began in mid-February and ended in the beginning of May, while the second and third batches began in March and ended in June. Trainees were divided among 79 [[recruit training|training camps]] scattered all over the country. Each camp was supposed to contain a good mix of youth from different ethnic groups and locations.

===Budget and spending===
Trainees were initially given a RM300 allowance by the government. Beginning in January 2008, this amount was raised to RM150/month, or RM450 total.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/1/20/nation/20068233&sec=nation |title=Higher allowance for NS trainees from this month |date=20 January 2008 |access-date=31 July 2008 |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090706200706/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F1%2F20%2Fnation%2F20068233&sec=nation |archive-date=6 July 2009 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Trainee allowances come in the form of a Sijil Simpanan Premium (Premium Savings Certificate) from [[Bank Simpanan Nasional]], or an account with [[Agro Bank Malaysia]].{{Citation needed|date=March 2011}} The accounts with Agro Bank Malaysia have been criticised for taking out RM 20 from each account, for processing and ATM card fees.{{Citation needed|date=March 2011}}{{by whom|date=December 2013}}

According to then-Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Wira Abu Seman Yusop, RM2.37bil has been spent to finance the National Service program since it was introduced in 2004. RM608.6mil was spent in 2004, RM604.8mil in 2005, RM588.2mil in 2006 and RM565mil in 2007. Then-former Defence Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had said earlier that the programme would not exceed RM500mil a year.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Budget<ref name=rm237>{{cite news |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/16/parliament/21270333&sec=parliament |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080518014125/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F5%2F16%2Fparliament%2F21270333&sec=parliament |url-status=dead |archive-date=18 May 2008 |title=RM2.37bil spent on NS |date=16 May 2008 |access-date=31 July 2008 |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |df=dmy-all }}</ref> ([[Malaysian ringgit|RM]])
|-
| Total (as of 2008)
| RM2.37 bil
|-
| 2008
| TBA
|-
| 2007
| 565.0 mil
|-
| 2006
| 588.2 mil
|-
| 2005
| 604.8 mil
|-
| 2004
| 608.6 mil
|}

==List of National Service Training Camps==
There are many National Service training camps in every state in Malaysia. The camps are not available in the [[Federal Territories]] of [[Kuala Lumpur]], [[Labuan Territory|Labuan]] and [[Putrajaya]].

Initially, the program involved a two-month placement in a rural outdoor camp, followed by one month in an urban setting (a university, or sport facility). Following university complaints of vandalism, the urban setting placement was discontinued after the 2004 program. The canvas tents in the outdoor camps that housed 10 trainees each were replaced with concrete dormitories that housed 20 trainees each. Trainees are now housed at only one location throughout the duration of the program.

{| class="wikitable"
!State
!Location
!Camp
|-
| rowspan="7" |'''[[Johor]]'''
| [[Mersing]]
| Pusat Bina Semangat [[Yayasan Pelajaran Johor|YPJ]]
|-
| [[Mersing]]
| Kem Rekreasi Pertanian Teluk Sari
|-
| [[Pagoh]]
| Nasuha Camp
|-
| [[Desaru]]
| Kem Desaru Gerak Khas
|-
| [[Batu Pahat]]
| Semberong Camp
|-
| [[Kluang]]
| Kem PLKN Pth Padang Hijau
|-
| [[Tangkak]]
| [https://web.archive.org/web/20061212081615/http://www.sriledang.name.my/ PLKN Kem Sri Ledang]
|-
| rowspan="11" |'''[[Kedah]]'''
|[[Langkawi]]
|Beringin Beach Resort Camp
|-
|[[Sik, Kedah|Sik]]
|Rimba Taqwa Camp
|-
|[[Kuala Nerang]]
|Dusun Resort Camp
|-
|[[Kulim]]
|PLKN Bukit Besar Camp
|-
|[[Merbok]]
|Damai Park Resort Camp
|-
|[[Sintok]]
|PLKN [[Universiti Utara Malaysia]] Sintok Camp
|-
|[[Baling]]
|Kem Rekreasi Belia
|-
|[[Langkawi]]
|Kem Lagenda Seri Negeri
|-
|[[Kubang Pasu District|Kubang Pasu]]
|Sri Kandi Camp
|-
|[[Kubang Pasu District|Kubang Pasu]]
|Gardenia Camp
|-
|[[Kubang Pasu District|Kubang Pasu]]
|D' Jelapang Camp
|-
|rowspan="4" |'''[[Kelantan]]'''
|[[Pasir Puteh]]
|Kisana Beach Resort Camp
|-
|[[Gua Musang District|Gua Musang]]
|Etnobotani Training Camp
|-
|[[Pasir Mas]]
|Cancun Park Camp
|-
|[[Kuala Krai]]
|Batu Jong Training Camp
|-
|rowspan="4" |'''[[Melaka]]'''
|[[Masjid Tanah]]
|Warisan Camp
|-
|[[Ayer Keroh]]
|Ayer Keroh Recreational Park Camp
|-
|[[Pekan Asahan]], [[Jasin District|Jasin]]
|[https://web.archive.org/web/20060820094909/http://www.lagenda.name.my/ Kem Lagenda Gunung Ledang, Asahan]
|-
|[[Alor Gajah]]
|Kem PLKN Putra-Putri
|-
|rowspan="7" |'''[[Negeri Sembilan]]'''
|[[Jempol]]
|De Bana Camp
|-
|[[Rembau District|Rembau]]
|Ulu Pari Camp
|-
|[[Port Dickson]]
|PDS Resort Camp
|-
|[[Kuala Pilah]]
|Karisma Camp
|-
|[[Mantin]]
|Seri Perkasa Camp
|-
|[[Rembau District|Rembau]]
|Titian Bintagor
|-
|[[Tanjung Tuan]]
|Rachado Bay Camp
|-
|rowspan="9" |'''[[Pahang]]'''
|[[Raub, Pahang|Raub]]
|Benum Hill Resort Camp
|-
|[[Bandar Muadzam Shah]]
|Pinggiran Pelangi Camp
|-
|[[Kuala Rompin]]
|Summerset Resort Camp
|-
|[[Lake Chini]]
|Lake Chini Resort Camp
|-
|[[Gambang, Pahang|Gambang]]
|Gambang Camp (Agro Resort Sungai Semuji)
|-
|[[Cherating]]
|[http://www.freewebs.com/cahayagemilangcherating/ Kem Cahaya Gemilang]
|-
|[[Pekan District|Pekan]]
|Semarak Camp
|-
|[[Bentong]]
|Chamang Camp
|-
|[[Maran]]
|Indera Pahlawan Camp
|-
|rowspan="4" |'''[[Penang]]'''
|[[Sungai Bakap]]
|Sri Impian Camp
|-
|[[Balik Pulau]]
|Kem PLKN White Resort
|-
|[[Balik Pulau]]
|Kem PLKN Sri Mutiara
|-
|[[Bukit Mertajam]]
|Syruz Camp
|-
|rowspan="9" |'''[[Perak]]'''
|[[Manjung]]
|Kem Akademi Kepimpinan Segari
|-
|[[Ayer Tawar]]
|PLKN Kem Kg Baharu (De Air' Resort)
|-
|[[Sungai Siput]]
|Terkok Camp
|-
|[[Lumut, Malaysia|Lumut]]
|Teluk Rubiah Camp
|-
|[[Gopeng]]
|Kem Taman Kepimpinan Gemilang
|-
|[[Sungkai]]
|Kem Sinaran Suria
|-
|[[Selama]]
|Tegas Mesra Camp
|-
|[[Chenderiang]]
|Sentosa Camp
|-
|[[Gunung Semanggol]]
|Jiwa Murni Camp
|-
|rowspan="3" |'''[[Perlis]]'''
|[[Wang Kelian]]
|Tasik Meranti Camp
|-
|[[Beseri]]
|Tasoh Camp
|-
|[[Padang Besar, Malaysia|Padang Besar]]
|Guar Chenderai Camp
|-
|rowspan="7" |'''[[Sabah]]'''
|[[Sandakan]]
|Bagai Budi Resort Camp
|-
|[[Tuaran]]
|KK Dibawah Bayu Camp
|-
|[[Sipitang]]
|Kubena Camp
|-
|[[Papar, Sabah|Papar]]
|Ovai Wawasan Camp
|-
|[[Tawau]]
|San Shui Camp
|-
|[[Kota Belud]]
|Sinar Jaya Camp
|-
|[[Tambunan]]
|Tanaki Camp
|-
|rowspan="8" |'''[[Sarawak]]'''
|[[Betong, Sarawak|Betong]]
|Bukit Saban Resort Camp
|-
|[[Miri, Malaysia|Miri]]
|Miri Camp, Batang Rait
|-
|[[Sibu]]
|Junaco Park Camp
|-
|[[Bintulu]]
|Similajau Camp
|-
|[[Serian, Sarawak|Serian]]
|Juara Camp
|-
|[[Sematan]]
|Putra Sentosa Camp
|-
|[[Sibu]]
|Bumimas Camp
|-
|[[Bau, Sarawak|Bau]]
|Puncak Permai Camp
|-
|rowspan="8" |'''[[Selangor]]'''
|[[Kuala Langat]]
|[http://www.freewebs.com/payaindah/ Paya Indah Camp]
|-
|[[Kuala Kubu Bharu]]
|Kem Bina Semangat, Kem Pelangi Hill Resort
|-
|[[Rawang, Selangor|Rawang]]
|Temasya Rimba Templer, [[Templer's Park|Templer Park]]
|-
|[[Sepang]]
|PLKN Princess Haliza Camp
|-
|[[Beranang]]
|Millennium Camp
|-
|[[Banting]]
|Jugra Banting Camp
|-
|[[Behrang]]
|Geo Cosmo Camp
|-
|[[Semenyih]]
|PLKN Setia Ikhlas Camp
|-
|rowspan="4" |'''[[Terengganu]]'''
|[[Setiu]]
|Merang Suria Holiday Camp
|-
|[[Setiu]]
|Kem Peladang Setiu Agro Resort
|-
|[[Kemaman]]
|Cheneh Cemerlang Training Camp
|-
|[[Kerteh]]
|Bakau Resort Camp
|}

==Deployment==
{{ref section|date=March 2025}}
The program was staggered into several batches (kumpulan) over the year. Collectively, all batches in a year are known as a series. Batches are known as "Batch X, Series Y". For example, the pilot batch in the pilot series would be referred to as Batch 1 Series 1, while the second batch in the fifth year (2008) series would be Batch 2 Series 5.

In the 2007 program, 100,000 people were selected out of the country's youths born in 1989. They were placed in 79 [[recruit training|training camps]], in three different batches. Each batch underwent three months of training. However, the 2007 batches did not overlap, as with the previous year's. Instead, the three batches spanned a total of nine months. Training of the first batch started on 1 January 2007 and ended at 11 March 2007. There were delays for trainees from the East Coast due to severe flooding in the region.

Including 2008, a total of 339,186 youths have been assigned to National Service since beginning in 2004.<ref name=rm237/> The program was run by Jabatan Latihan Khidmat Negara (JLKN) or National Service Department, a department under the [[Ministry of Defence (Malaysia)|Malaysian Ministry of Defence]].

==Criticism==
{{see also|Conscription#Arguments against conscription}}
{{more citations needed section|date=April 2015}}
Despite progress towards ethnic harmony made in Malaysia in recent times it is clear that there are still problems. Outside the Human Rights Charter Contraventions, other problems are also as follows:

After the 2004 pilot batch completed its National Service, the youth wing of the [[Malaysian Chinese Association]], Malaysia's largest ethnic Chinese party), on behalf of themselves and 8 other Chinese-based youth organisations, issued a memorandum to the National Service Training Council calling for more non-Malay trainers. They also criticised the lack of counsellors, imbalanced diet for the participants, poor communication among the various secretariats and no code of conduct for camp commandants or directors, trainers, facilitators and supervisors.

Other main controversy issues of Malaysian National Service include the selection system where the government computer database system picks up the trainees randomly without even knowing about their social status. Some cases include poor teenagers who need to work for their living and young mothers with newborn babies who were selected for the program, which are considered as inhumane. However, selected trainees with extraneous circumstances can send a letter of appeal to be exempted from the training, which will usually be approved.

In 2005, concerns were raised in [[Parliament of Malaysia|Parliament]] that youth were being taught to use [[firearm]]s, namely [[M16 rifle]]s, in National Service. Then Deputy Prime Minister, [[Najib Razak]], stated that this was merely a pilot project. However, a [[Democratic Action Party (Malaysia)|Democratic Action Party]] Member of Parliament (MP) claimed that the Parliamentary Select Committee on Unity and National Service had not been informed of the project. The firearms module is now a module of the program.

Trainees are required to submit a health status declaration form but are not required to seek qualified medical opinion in completing this declaration (unlike, for example, [[United States Space Camp]] which requires qualified medical certification of health status). Trainees are required to complete a medical checkup before entering the program, which is provided for free at major government clinics. This medical checkup, however, is not reinforced.

===Official reception===
The program has been plagued with claims of poor management right from its inception.<ref name=flop/> There have been a total of 16 trainee deaths.<ref name="Malice">{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/article1105017.ece|title=Malaysia: 'No malice' when Sikh trainee's hair cut|date=20 January 2011|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=24 August 2011}}</ref>

When pressured by more calls to suspend the program because of a 16th death, Najib responded that it was not feasible to stop the program since "many parties are involved".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nst.com.my/Sunday/National/2237225/Article/index_html |title=NS to outsource check-ups |date=11 May 2008 |newspaper=The New Straits Times |access-date=31 July 2008 |last=Jamaludin |first=M. Hamzah |author2=Rina De Silva |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080520075554/http://www.nst.com.my/Sunday/National/2237225/Article/index_html <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = 20 May 2008}}</ref>

==Major incidents==

===2005===
* Food poisoning, PDS Resort Camp, Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan, on 16 May. 60 trainees and instructors at Pusat Latihan Khidmat Negara, Port Dickson Camp, Negeri Sembilan.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dph.gov.my/survelans/Buletin%202005/WeeklyMay2%20(20)%20.pdf |title=Disease Outbreak News |publisher=Ministry of Health |date=May 2005 |access-date=31 July 2008 }}{{Dead link|date=April 2020 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

===2007===
* Lost in jungle, Kem Lagenda Gunung Ledang, Jasin, Malacca, on 30 April. Twenty-three lost their way during a jungle trekking exercise at Asahan Forest Reserve. The instructor in charge of the group was dismissed with immediate effect for negligence.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/5/16/nation/17743853&sec=nation |title=NS instructor in Malacca sacked |date=16 May 2008 |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090706200657/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2007%2F5%2F16%2Fnation%2F17743853&sec=nation |archive-date=6 July 2009 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===2008===
* High fever, Kem Desaru Gerak Khas, Kota Tinggi, Johor, on 31 May. 58 trainees came down with vomiting and high fever on 31 May, and were admitted to Kota Tinggi Hospital. The incident began when trainees began to fall sick after returning to camp on 28 May, from the Wirajaya module (a two-day jungle trekking exercise).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=336661 |title=58 National Service Trainees at Desaru Camp Down With High Fever |access-date=31 July 2008 |date=1 July 2008 |publisher=[[Bernama]]}}</ref>
* Food poisoning, Kem Barracuda, Setiu Agro, Terrenganu, on 23 May. Nine trainees fell ill due to food poisoning, with four trainees being warded at Setiu Hospital. The camp's canteen was closed down.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/31/nation/21414824&sec=nation |title=NS trainees still warded for observation |date=29 May 2008 |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080714134023/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F5%2F31%2Fnation%2F21414824&sec=nation |archive-date=14 July 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
* Food poisoning, Kem Barracuda, Setiu Agro, Terengganu, on 29 May. 67 trainees developed stomachaches believed to be caused by food poisoning on 28 May, barely a week after nine trainees from the same camp suffered the same ailment. Fourteen trainees were warded in the Setiu Hospital, while 53 received outpatient treatment. Four food handlers at the camp also received outpatient treatments at the same hospital. The food was catered from outside, as the camp's canteen had been closed after the 23 May incident when four of the trainees were warded for food poisoning.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/29/nation/20080529181346&sec=nation |title=NS trainees in Setiu camp hit by food poisoning again |date=29 May 2008 |last=Murali |first=R.S.N. |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080601005555/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F5%2F29%2Fnation%2F20080529181346&sec=nation |archive-date=1 June 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===2009===
* An 18-year-old ethnic Chinese trainee was alleged to have been sexually assaulted by more than 20 unidentified men at Lake Chini Resort Camp, Lake Chini, Pahang, on 23 June while making a call from a phone booth on camp grounds at night. Accompanied by her father, the trainee lodged a police report and underwent a medical check-up the next day and did not return to camp. As of one week later, camp authorities were purportedly pressuring the trainee to return to training.<ref name="More violence at NS camp">{{cite web |url=http://www.thenutgraph.com/more-violence-at-ns-camp |title=More violence at NS camp |date=1 July 2009 |publisher=The Nut Graph |access-date=2 July 2009}}</ref>
* A racial brawl involving almost 100 trainees occurred in the canteen of Lake Chini Resort Camp, Lake Chini, Pahang, on 27 June following a misunderstanding arising from trainees "inadvertently [shoving] into each other" while rearranging chairs. Following this incident, 17 trainees were arrested by police and held at Pekan district police lock-up for two days before being released after meeting their parents.<ref name="More violence at NS camp"/>

===2011===
* Harassment, Sri Impian Camp, Sungai Bakap, Penang, in mid January. A Sikh youth woke up discovering his hair was cut by 50 to 60&nbsp;cm while he was asleep in his dormitory. The incident traumatised the youth because it violated his religious rights ([[Kesh (Sikhism)|kesh]]). It is under probe ordered by the Defence Ministry.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/1/19/nation/7822618&sec=nation|newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]|title=Minister orders probe into 'cutting' of Sikh boy's hair|access-date=19 January 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110122031832/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2011%2F1%2F19%2Fnation%2F7822618&sec=nation|archive-date=22 January 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===2013===
* Poor food and damaged facilities, a group of NS trainees from the White Resort camp, Balik Pulau, Penang, protested and threatened to leave the camp over unbearable conditions of the camp such as insufficient food, dirty pillows, clogged sinks and toilets, broken bed frames and broken toilet doors. One of the NS trainees found worms in the food served at the camp.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2013/09/12/NS-trainees-want-out-of-camp-White-Resort-Msias-best-site-five-years-ago-now-its-the-worst.aspx|title=NS trainees want out of camp}}</ref>

==Trainee fatalities==

===2005===
* S. Theresa Pauline, 17, attached to Kem Karisma, Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. Died on 11 June after being admitted to the hospital on 23 May due to having fits. Her death was attributed to viral [[meningoencephalitis]]. Her father, S. Sarimuthu was paid RM 32,000.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=203338 |title=NS Trainee Theresa Died of Viral Meningoencephalitis |date=14 June 2006 |access-date=31 July 2008 |publisher=[[Bernama]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926215012/http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=203338 |archive-date=26 September 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===2007===
* Ili Ameera Azlan, 17, attached to Kem Ayer Keroh, Ayer Keroh, Melaka. Died on 18 January at Malacca Hospital, after suffering breathing difficulties.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=242393 |title=Parents Told To Ensure That NS Trainees Fill Health Forms Correctly |date=20 January 2007 |access-date=31 July 2008 |publisher=[[Bernama]]}}</ref> The parents were paid RM 35,000.
* Prema Elenchelian, 18, attached to Kem Kisana Beach Resort, Pasir Puteh, Kelantan. The trainee from Kajang, Selangor, was found unconscious in a toilet at Jeram Linang (0230 hours) on 1 March. She was taken to the Tengku Anis Hospital where she was pronounced dead. Prema's death brought the number of trainees who have died since the programme began in 2004 to 12.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=249526 |title= Reports on NS Trainees Death Overblown, Says Health Minister |date=2 March 2007 |access-date=31 July 2008 |publisher=[[Bernama]]}}</ref>
* Mohd Rafi Ameer, 18, attached to Cheneh Cemerlang Camp, Kemaman, Pahang. Died at 10.30pm on 3 September, after having fever for 1 week. Rafi had previously called his sister and told her that he had a fever, and that his leg had been swollen for nearly a week after he fell during training.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/9/3/nation/18764174&sec=nation |title=NS trainee dies of fever |date=3 September 2007 |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070904062320/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2007%2F9%2F3%2Fnation%2F18764174&sec=nation |archive-date=4 September 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===2008===
* Too Hui Min, 18, attached to Kem Geo Kosmo, Behrang, Selangor. Died on 7 May at Slim River Hospital, Perak, three days after she started complaining of constipation. The cause of death was later determined as being [[toxic megacolon]] – her colon had been swollen and the lining had thinned due to [[septicaemia]]. Her death was the 16th National Service death, and was followed by several DAP leaders calling for the suspension or even the scrapping of the National Service programme.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/9/nation/21199171&sec=nation |title=Family wants to know why girl not sent to hospital earlier |date=9 May 2008 |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080714111024/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F5%2F9%2Fnation%2F21199171&sec=nation |archive-date=14 July 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/9/nation/20080509172929&sec=nation |title=NS programme causing too many deaths, says DAP |date=9 May 2008 |last=Leen |first=Chan Li |author2=Christina Koh |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080717045413/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F5%2F9%2Fnation%2F20080509172929&sec=nation |archive-date=17 July 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
* Afiq Zuhairi Ahmat Rozali, 18, attached to Kem Sentosa, Chenderiang, Perak. Died on 16 April at Teluk Intan Hospital, Perak, after a brief [[febrile]] illness. He was treated by camp paramedics several times before finally being transferred to hospital where he died in less than 24 hours.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/4/17/nation/20977570&sec=nation |title=NS trainee dies hours after being admitted |date=17 April 2008 |newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]] |access-date=31 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080620124356/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2008%2F4%2F17%2Fnation%2F20977570&sec=nation |archive-date=20 June 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===2009===
* Abdul Malik Ishak, 18, attached to Kem Guar Chenderai, Padang Besar, Perlis. Found dead in his bed on 29 June, at Kem Guar Chenderai. He had not reported any problems on his self-reported health declaration form.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/6/30/nation/4222820&sec=nation|title=NS trainee found dead in his bed|date=30 June 2009|newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]|access-date=30 June 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090701003305/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2009%2F6%2F30%2Fnation%2F4222820&sec=nation|archive-date=1 July 2009|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===2011===
* 2 illness-caused deaths 1 coma<ref>{{cite news|url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/2/17/nation/8083220&sec=nation|title=Two NS trainees die of illnesses, another still in coma|date=17 February 2011|newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]|access-date=17 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110218034744/http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2011%2F2%2F17%2Fnation%2F8083220&sec=nation|archive-date=18 February 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
* A Sarawakian trainee collapsed and died in a hospital.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?sec=sarawak&file=/2011/2/24/sarawak/8127585|title=Sarawakian NS trainee collapses, dies in hospital|date=24 February 2011|newspaper=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]|access-date=24 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628191031/http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?sec=sarawak&file=%2F2011%2F2%2F24%2Fsarawak%2F8127585|archive-date=28 June 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===2012===
* 1 death<ref>{{cite web |url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/4/27/nation/11184334&sec=nation |title=NS trainee in coma dies |publisher=Thestar.com.my |access-date=22 May 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430005044/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2012%2F4%2F27%2Fnation%2F11184334&sec=nation |archive-date=30 April 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===2013===
* Muhammad Suhaimi Norhamidi, 18, was bludgeoned to death by a blunt object by fellow trainees for allegedly cutting queue during breakfast at the National Service camp in Muadzam Shah, Pahang on 22 September 2013. Police have arrested three other trainees aged 17 to 21.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/murder-at-national-service-camp|title=Murder at National Service|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130925204359/http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/murder-at-national-service-camp|archive-date=25 September 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===Deaths===
There have been 22 deaths since the programme started in 2004,<ref name="Malice"/> with 12 trainees dying in the camps and five more during breaks or within days of completing the program.<ref name=rm237/>

==In Popular Culture==

There have been television programs or documentaries showcasing PLKN since its establishment over 20 years ago, which includes:

*3R Season 1, a program about women that aired on [[Astro Ria]] (before its name change to TV3) in 2004
*Platun Satria, a Malay telemovie which aired on TV3 in 2009 starring Nabila Huda and Ryzal Jaafar
*Mulanya Di Sini episode 20, a story about youth who train under PLKN in Penang, which aired on RTM in 2011 and starred Meyra Liyana, Farid Wari and [[Zain Saidin]]

==Notes==
{{reflist|2}}

==References==
* {{cite news|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-114246527.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021052822/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-114246527.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 October 2012 |title=Views will be sought |date=18 October 2005 |newspaper=[[New Straits Times]] |page=16 |last=Ng |first=Eileen |author2=Ranjeetha Pakiam Chok Suat Ling}}

==External links==
* {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180403011439/http://www.khidmatnegara.gov.my/|title=National Service Training Department Website|date=2018-04-03}}

{{Asia in topic|Conscription in|MY=National Service Training Programme (Malaysia)}}

{{portal|Malaysia}}

{{authority control}}

[[Category:Conscription by country|Malaysia]]
[[Category:Military education and training in Malaysia]]
[[Category:Organizations established in 2003]]
[[Category:2003 establishments in Malaysia]]
[[Category:Federal ministries, departments and agencies of Malaysia]]
[[Category:Defunct government agencies of Malaysia]]
[[Category:Government agencies disestablished in 2018]]
[[Category:2018 disestablishments in Malaysia]]