KUCHING: Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Youth chief Michael Tiang has expressed support for the proposal to establish a voluntary military service programme for unemployed youth in the country.
“I believe that the military provides an excellent platform for training young people in leadership skills and instilling discipline, teamwork, resilience, strategic planning, and communication abilities.
“These skills are crucial for building strong characters and enhancing employability. The military programme has a track record of producing skilled and competent individuals who can contribute to the labour market.”
He also highlighted the physical fitness aspect of the programme, which could open doors to careers in other enforcement sectors such as the police and security services.
The Pelawan assemblyman’s remarks were prompted by Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim’s recent call for the federal government to consider implementing a voluntary military service programme for unemployed youth.
Tiang hoped that young people would embrace this proposal, recognising its potential benefits. “I believe that such a programme not only equips participants with job-relevant skills but also helps shape their characters and potentially chart their own paths.”
“I think if they can see the value and if they can see this as part of the training, they will accept such offer.
“I can see that the younger generation today aspires to make a difference, but someone has to show them the ropes,” he added.
Meanwhile, Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Youth chief Miro Simuh also welcomed the idea, emphasising the need to “create a more resilient and adaptable generation that can overcome obstacles and capable of facing future uncertainties.”
