Kuala lumpur: The Defence Ministry does not rely primarily on enforcement to address absenteeism among National Service Training Programme 3.0 (PLKN 3.0) participants, instead opting for more effective approaches that raise awareness and cultivate interest. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said participants cited health issues, studies, and job commitments as among the reasons for their absence and that the ministry would continue to engage with them to address the matter.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, PLKN 3.0 prioritizes providing space and opportunities for the younger generation to join the programme based on their readiness and ability, in line with its flexible and phased implementation. Adly noted that some participants who were absent in the second series of PLKN 3.0 have expressed readiness to join the third series, highlighting the effectiveness of the ministry's awareness-based approach over strict enforcement. He emphasized that using the National Service Training Act is a last resort and that discussions and awareness should be prioritized.

Adly provided statistics on participation, stating that by July, two training series had been conducted involving 560 trainees out of a total target of 1,200 participants for 2025. The first series saw 116 trainees, while the second had 444 participants. The upcoming third series in September is expected to involve 640 participants.

In response to a query from Nordin Ahmad Ismail regarding employment opportunities for Malaysian Armed Forces veterans with the Border Control and Protection Agency, Adly mentioned that the government is considering the proposal. The ministry aims for at least 30 percent involvement of MAF veterans in the defense industry sector to ensure their welfare. Discussions with the Home Ministry are ongoing to facilitate this involvement.