‘Programme designed to instil leadership, discipline and patriotism’
KUALA LUMPUR: Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul told the Bar Council yesterday that far from militarising Malaysia’s youth, the National Service Training Programme (NS) is designed to instil leadership, discipline and patriotism.
Speaking at “The Legal Profession’s Role in Malaysia’s Future: Insights from the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat” event, he emphasised that, unlike Singapore, South Korea or Israel, where compulsory service is directly linked to national defence, Malaysia’s programme has a different purpose.
About 80 individuals attended the session.
“Some countries need two years of service because their populations are small and they need everyone to defend the country.
“Singapore is an example. Taiwan too, because of its experience with mainland China.”
He said Malaysia does not follow that model because the primary aim of NS is youth development and fostering unity.
““When we talk about NS in Malaysia, it is not about defending the country in a military sense, but about developing discipline and civic responsibility.
“We are not turning them into soldiers.
“Almost 40% of our population is made up of young people. We want them to become leaders, but leadership needs certain qualities.”
He added that academic education alone is insufficient to produce well-rounded leaders.
“They may be good in mathematics, chemistry or the arts, but still lack other qualities. The programme puts them in a position in which they learn to understand their fellow Malaysians.
“They eat, speak, discuss and pray together. They begin to appreciate each other’s cultures, religions and beliefs. That 45 days is a good start.”
He also said while youth development is the focus, instilling patriotism remains central, including controlled familiarisation with weapons.
“We want them to believe they have a responsibility to protect the nation.”
Drawing from personal experience, Johari said the training builds character and a deep attachment to the country.
“When you salute your senior during the passing-out ceremony, the feeling is different – a feeling of oneness, of loving your country. You cannot describe it.”
He added that the programme also helps break negative habits.
“Parents tell us, 98% of them, that their children come back as different kids altogether.
“At least they respect their parents, wash the dishes and make their own beds. That is very important.”
He said while the current 45-day programme is sufficient for now, the duration could be adjusted depending on future needs.
“If they want more, I could give you two years.
“That is what we are trying to do. To nurture them so that when they leave, they can proudly say: I am a Malaysian.”
