MEMBERS of the public expressed their support for the proposed National Youth Programme or `Hikmat Bakti Belia Negara’ (PKBN), which was mentioned by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Ahmad bin Haji Jumat during the first session of the Sixth Legislative Council Meeting.
The National Youth Programme, according to the Culture, Youth and Sports Minister, is aimed at “creating well-rounded youths” through character-building programmes involving physical training and community service, targeting youngsters between the ages of 16 and 18.

When approached by the Bulletin, a number of youths seemed to have taken the proposal positively and said “it is good”, concurring that the experience gained through the programme will create a sense of nationalism and patriotism that PKBN is striving for once it is initiated.

The programme, according to 23-year-old Zul, should start soon “before it gets too late” upon noticing the youths increasingly getting involved in unhealthy activities.

He is doubtful, however, about the number of youths who would be willing to participate in the programme.
“Allowances can help encourage them,” he said and added that through financial aid, “they’ll realise that earning comes from hard work”, and proposed that the programme be made mandatory.

Twenty-one-year-old Rafanah Mufidah said, “It should be made mandatory for the boys,” and added that the participation should be made voluntary for girls.

When asked if she will take part willingly if given the opportunity, she replied without hesitation, “I’ll go,” and added that the programme will help in building her own sense of patriotism.

Though supporting the initiative undertaken by the government in building well-rounded individuals, 19-yearold UBD student, Hadi Nazirul, said, “As long as it is not compulsory.” He feels that if it’s made mandatory, the programme will limit the individual’s choice.

“Compulsion is against liberty,” he said considering that there are those who may not want to participate in the PKBN programme.

A 48-year-old retired RBAF officer said the programme could help the current generation overcome issues they are now facing. “We have a lot of problems with today’s youths so the programme will help solve these,” he said, adding that the PKBN is also aimed at instilling self-discipline.

Comparing the experiences his generation had endured with the youths today, he said, “It was harder for us,” noting that the youths of today “are being spoon-fed”.

He hopes that the programme will also produce quality future leaders as it can also generate a sense of unison and teamwork. “It can help create future leaders we can be proud of,” he said further emphasising his optimism in building a greater nation.

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