MELAKA: The National Service Training Programme 3.0 pilot project has received a thumbs up from Melaka parents.
Father of six Mohd Noor Ismail said its reintroduction is timely and crucial for nation-building as well as closing the gap between various races in the country.
"I am 55 years old this year and grew up in a multicultural society where race and religion weren't a big deal except when stirred by politicians.
"Nowadays, it's hard to see different races sitting at the same table enjoying a cuppa and this programme will hopefully bring back the glory of past years," he said when interviewed.
Mohd Noor, who is also the secretary of Taman Nirwana and Taman Cenderawasih Residential Association here, said he encourages youths in his housing estates to mingle with their neighbours from different backgrounds as well as holding joint events to foster harmony.
"I am sure the programme will be able to achieve the same objective if the earlier modules are maintained and I hope stakeholders make sure the National Service Training Programme is designed to attract all races," he said.
He said broadening participation in the programme will ensure nation-building becomes more inclusive and creates a healthy diverse society.
"It's sad to see our youths arguing in social media and labelling each other with derogatory remarks which are detrimental to the country's growth," Mohd Noor said.
Hotelier Dennis Samford said young Malaysians can participate and contribute to their community through the programme.
"I am highly optimistic of the programme and will encourage my child as well as my nephews and nieces to sign up if given the opportunity to do so," he said.
Samford said the programme will positively impact youths' discipline and mould them to be a better person.
"I used to employ many school-leavers and noticed that they lacked discipline when it comes to performing their tasks and some are even argumentative when we point out their mistakes and I hope this can be fine-tuned through such programmes.
"Hopefully, the programme's modules are forward-thinking," he said.
Sales executive Daniel Tan, 46, from Cheng said he hopes that his two sons are selected for the programme in order for them to develop a deeper understanding of their responsibilities to the country and as useful citizens.
"I will make sure they attend the programme if given the chance as this is a lifetime opportunity to mingle with Malaysians from various backgrounds," he said.
Kota Laksamana assemblyman Low Chee Leong also lauded the programme as a father.
He said the programme is the right platform to foster a sense of civic-mindedness and communal responsibility among young Malaysians besides fostering inclusivity.
He added that countries like Singapore and Taiwan have effectively implemented such programmes and it's time for Malaysia to do so in a bid to divert youths from engaging in undesirable behaviour and instilling patriotism.
Yesterday, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin said the National Service Training Programme 3.0 pilot project will begin in June and July next year.
