Building patriotism: Have colour-blind policies, not RM50m national service

PARLIAMENT | A DAP lawmaker does not consider it is wise to spend RM50 million for the National Service Programme 3.0, especially in this economic climate.

Chow Yu Hui (Harapan-Raub) is also confident that implementing fair and equal policies for all Malaysians regardless of race and religion under the spirit of the Madani government would be more effective in instilling patriotism.

Chow, who objected to reviving the programme, said there had been numerous problems in the past with implementation, effectiveness, and the cost involved.

Urging the government to reconsider the move, he asked: “Is it really necessary to burden the public with such a massive cost just to bring back a programme which was stopped because it was perceived as a failure?

“Is national service the only way to instil patriotism in our youths? Don’t we have a better and cost-effective approach?” he added when debating Budget 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Chow pointed out that the country is still in the pre-Covid-19 pandemic recovery phase, and the people are struggling to cope with the high cost of living and inflation.

He added that the allocation could be diverted to more critical sectors such as education and healthcare.

“Is there a pressing need for this programme at this point?” he asked.

The MP added that the government spent RM8.4 billion on the programme from its inception in 2004 until it was scrapped in 2018, but its effectiveness remains doubtful.

Could affect people’s income

Chow also noted that based on the Defence Ministry’s response, those between the ages of 15 and 35 could be absorbed into the programme.

“Those below 35 are mostly still pursuing their education; some may have completed their studies and are working, while some could be married with families.

“Even if it is just for two months, it might have a huge impact on their lives. There would be a loss of income when many have to pay for housing and car loans as well as for their children’s expenses.

“Some university students might choose to work during their semester breaks to pay for their education,” he added.

Chow suggested that the government focus on initiatives that are more effective and impactful for youths and the public.

“I believe we all want the best for the coming generations, but this must be done with wisdom and based on research and the real needs of society,” he added.

Last Saturday, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the national service programme would be implemented in stages from next January.

He said that, for a start, the programme would be held at two military camps in Kuala Lumpur and Pahang before being expanded to 13 others nationwide once fully implemented in 2026.

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