Planning team building activities that are both effective and budget-friendly is a top priority for many Malaysian organizations today. One of the best ways to stretch your HR training budget is by leveraging HRDC teambuilding programs—strategically designed activities that are claimable under the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRDC) initiative.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about HRDC claimable team building in Malaysia, from what qualifies to where to host your event and how to maximize your claims.
What is HRDC Team Building?
HRDC teambuilding refers to team development programs that are eligible for funding through HRD Corp (formerly known as HRDF). These programs must go beyond casual activities and include structured learning components focused on skills such as leadership, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.
HRDC supports employers by subsidizing training that enhances employee competencies. When structured properly, team building can meet these criteria—making it an excellent opportunity to develop your team without exhausting your internal resources.
What Makes a Team Building Activity HRDC Claimable?
Not all team building events qualify. To be considered HRDC claimable team building, the activity must meet certain standards:
✅ 1. Delivered by a Registered Training Provider
The facilitator or company organizing the session must be registered with HRDC. They should be able to provide you with a certificate and registered training ID.
✅ 2. Structured Around Learning Outcomes
Your event needs to include elements of training. For example:
- Leadership simulations
- Communication workshops
- Conflict resolution exercises
- Strategic problem-solving games
Activities like BBQ outings or karaoke nights won’t qualify unless they are supported by learning modules.
✅ 3. Includes Documented Materials
Training materials, attendance records, learning assessments, and post-program feedback are often required for HRDC claims.
✅ 4. Submitted via eTRiS Portal
Companies must submit their training plan and required documents via HRDC’s eTRiS portal for pre-approval before the event takes place.
Benefits of HRDC Claimable Team Building
Here’s why more companies are choosing HRDC teambuilding:
- ✅ Cost-effective: Training costs are reimbursable under the HRD levy.
- ✅ Employee development: Boosts morale, collaboration, and performance.
- ✅ Customizable: Can be tailored to your company’s goals, size, and industry.
- ✅ Credibility: Working with registered providers ensures program quality and compliance.
Where to Host HRDC Team Building in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a wide variety of locations for HRDC claimable team building—whether you want something close to the city or a retreat into nature.
🌆 Indoor Venues (KL, Selangor)
- Corporate training centers
- Hotel conference rooms
- Co-working spaces with seminar facilities
These are perfect for skill-based sessions like personality profiling, communication workshops, or design thinking labs.
🏞️ Outdoor & Retreat Venues
- Janda Baik – great for jungle trekking and outdoor challenges
- Genting Highlands – cool weather and high-energy activities
- Tadom Hill Resort – bamboo-themed team retreats with water activities
- Port Dickson – beachside bonding mixed with soft skill learning
Outdoor venues are excellent for blended programs combining physical tasks with facilitated workshops.
How to Organize an HRDC Claimable Team Building Program
Here’s a simple checklist to make your planning smoother:
Step 1: Define Your Objectives
Ask yourself:
- Are we focusing on leadership?
- Do we need cross-department collaboration?
- Is this post-merger integration or onboarding for new hires?
Knowing your goals will help structure your training plan.
Step 2: Choose a Registered Provider
Work with a provider experienced in HRDC teambuilding. Providers like Vision Building specialize in HRDC-compliant programs and can guide you through both the activity design and claims process.
Step 3: Draft and Submit Your Plan
Use the eTRiS platform to:
- Register your training needs
- Submit supporting documents
- Get pre-approval from HRDC
Step 4: Conduct the Program
Ensure that:
- Participants sign attendance sheets
- Photos and videos are taken for documentation
- Feedback forms are collected
- Trainers complete the learning assessments
Step 5: Claim Your Reimbursement
Submit your post-training report and claim documents through eTRiS. Most companies receive their reimbursement within a few weeks.
Final Thoughts
Team building doesn’t have to be a one-off morale booster—it can be a strategic part of your workforce development plan. By choosing HRDC claimable team building, Malaysian companies can create meaningful growth opportunities for their teams while reducing out-of-pocket costs.
From high-impact indoor sessions in KL to adventurous outdoor retreats, HRDC teambuilding makes it easier to align your team-building goals with your company’s bottom line.
Looking for HRDC-registered team building providers?
Connect with Vision Building to design a fully claimable, purpose-driven experience tailored to your organization.
