A recent survey claims that more than 90 percent of National Service trainees who underwent a 'pilot project' for firearms training using the M-16 rifle agreed that the training was suitable for them under the national service programme.

This was revealed by National Service Council President Lee Lam Thye today at a National Service firearms training programme at the Sungai Besi army camp in Kuala Lumpur.

The National Service Department had for the first time introduced shooting practice at six National Service camps this year involving 997 trainees.

The survey was conducted both by the department and the Malaysian Armed Forces to help decide whether such firearms training should be fully implemented at all NS camps in the coming year.

Three quarters of the trainees surveyed said they were satisfied with the theoretical training provided and more than 90 percent agreed that this had built up their confidence to take the practical part of the programme.

Lee said that the survey results had been submitted to Deputy Premier and Defence Minister Najib Abdul Razak for a final decision.

He said as part of their training, NS trainees next year would have the chance to visit military bases or army camps.

'Enhance patriotism'

Lee also said the department has no intention to introduce military training or conscription via the National Service programme.

"Even if they are exposed to weapons training and army camps, this has nothing to do with real military training."

When asked why the views of parents were not included in the survey, Lee replied that this was inappropriate as parents themselves had not experienced firearms handling and shooting practice.

He, however, added that the NS council was prepared to hear the views of parents with regards to firearms training. "They can write to me or the council," he said.

Lee said the shooting practice would 'enhance the patriotism and nationalism of the trainees'.

"I'm not saying that only a person with an M-16 is patriotic, but the training helps to strengthen patriotism," he said.

He added the safety and security of the trainees would be given top priority and that the training was not compulsory.

"They can choose to be exempted if they are not willing to undergo the shooting training," said Lee.