His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, underscored the continued significance of the National Service Programme (PKBN) in shaping Bruneian youth as future leaders and contributors to national development.
Delivering a titah during the Passing Out Parade Ceremony for the 13th PKBN intake at the National Service Training Camp in Batu Apoi, Temburong District on Monday, His Majesty emphasised the programme’s role in instilling noble values and a strong national identity.
His Majesty acknowledged the programme’s success in preparing youth for real-world challenges, noting that all trainees in this intake had successfully completed their training safely and effectively.
Highlighting the continuous improvement of PKBN, His Majesty pointed to the introduction of several new training modules in the 13th intake. These included religious and spiritual programmes, community service, Islamic leadership, Islamic history and civilisation, mental health from an Islamic perspective, and a targeted monthly financial recovery programme. These initiatives aim to equip trainees with a broader understanding of contemporary issues while strengthening their resilience and adaptability.
A key factor contributing to the success of this intake was the implementation of the Pre-Conditioning and Injury Management Programme in the first two weeks of training. His Majesty noted that this initiative has enhanced the physical, mental, and spiritual endurance of trainees, enabling them to meet the challenges of PKBN with greater preparedness.
Recognising the evolving demands of youth development, His Majesty proposed extending the PKBN training period to six months.
The monarch highlighted that an extended training duration would provide a more conducive environment for skill-building while ensuring that trainees gradually adapt to the increasing intensity of the programme.
“This extension will allow for a more effective, comprehensive, and structured training experience while reinforcing PKBN’s objectives,” His Majesty stated, urging government agencies, private sector organisations, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to fully support and commit to this initiative.
His Majesty also commended the participation of 15 PKBN alumni who have returned to serve as certified instructors in drill skills and physical training through the Train the Trainers Programme. This initiative, introduced for the first time, provides PKBN alumni with the opportunity to refine their expertise while contributing to the development of future intakes.
Beyond strengthening the training curriculum, His Majesty emphasised that the initiative creates employment opportunities and fosters a long-term succession plan for PKBN.
“I hope this programme will continue to grow, with more alumni actively participating in shaping the next generation of PKBN trainees,” His Majesty remarked.
The PKBN programme, since its inception, has played a crucial role in developing youth who embody integrity, discipline, and responsibility. His Majesty’s call for an extended training period and stronger alumni involvement signals a new chapter in PKBN’s evolution, ensuring its continued impact on national development. – James Kon
