THE ROLE OF YOUTH IN STRENGTHENING NATIONAL DEFENSE MANAGEMENT: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN MALAYSIA

The role of youth in national defense management is increasingly recognized as vital for national security. Youth participation in defense initiatives enhances resilience, leadership, and technological integration. However, challenges such as limited awareness, resource constraints, and policy gaps hinder their full potential. This review explores the opportunities and challenges in youth engagement in Malaysia’s defense sector. This paper aims to (1) identify key theories relevant to youth involvement in national defense, (2) examine the effectiveness of youth participation, (3) analyze challenges and opportunities, and (4) provide strategic recommendations for enhancing youth engagement. Findings highlight that youth contribute significantly to national resilience, cybersecurity, and community-based security efforts. However, participation barriers such as lack of motivation, outdated training methods, and limited policy support persist. Comparative insights from Singapore, South Korea, and Sweden suggest strategies for improving youth engagement, such as integrating technology and offering policy incentives. Strengthening youth participation in national defense requires policy reforms, technological advancements, and educational collaboration. Future research should focus on longitudinal assessments, innovative training approaches, and sociocultural influences to enhance youth contributions to national security. A structured, multi-faceted approach is necessary to maximize their role in defense management.