HRD Corp and SBL-Khas, explained
How Malaysia's employer training levy can fund AI, Agile and Leadership upskilling for your teams, in plain English.
What is HRD Corp?
HRD Corp, formerly known as HRDF, is the Malaysian statutory body that manages employer-funded training. Registered employers with 10 or more Malaysian employees contribute a 1% payroll levy, and that levy builds a balance you can use to fund approved training for your people.
What is SBL-Khas?
Most claimable training in Malaysia runs under the SBL-Khas scheme (Skim Bantuan Latihan Khas). Under this scheme, an HRD Corp registered employer can apply to claim eligible training costs against its levy balance. Applications are submitted to HRD Corp before training begins, and claims are subject to HRD Corp approval and the Allowable Cost Matrix.
How the claim process actually works
Confirm eligibility
Check that your company is HRD Corp registered with a sufficient levy balance for the training cost.
Submit grant application
Submit the SBL-Khas grant application on the HRD Corp portal BEFORE the training start date. Include the provider, trainer, dates and Allowable Cost breakdown.
Run the training
Deliver the approved training. Collect attendance, materials and trainer evaluation records that HRD Corp requires.
Submit claim
Submit the claim with invoices, payment proof and the required records. HRD Corp processes the claim against your levy.
Always submit the grant application BEFORE training starts. Late applications are typically rejected.
The Allowable Cost Matrix, plain language
The Allowable Cost Matrix is the HRD Corp document that defines what training costs are claimable and at what rates. It is updated periodically. A simplified view of the categories most relevant to AI and Agile programmes:
| Cost category | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Trainer / consultancy fee | The fee paid to the registered training provider, within HRD Corp rate guidance. |
| Training materials | Workbooks, digital content, software access for the duration of the course. |
| Certification fee | Where the programme awards an external certification (e.g. ICAgile), the certification fee. |
| Approved venue and logistics | Meal, refreshment and venue costs for in-person delivery, where approved. |
The official Allowable Cost Matrix is the authoritative source. Refer to HRD Corp directly to confirm current rates for your application.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between HRDF and HRD Corp?
They are the same body. HRD Corp is the current name; HRDF (Human Resources Development Fund) is the legacy name.
Are Agile Visa courses HRD Corp claimable today?
Not yet. Our founder is HRD Corp Accredited Trainer, with full HRD Corp programme accreditation in progress. Once registration completes, eligible employers will be able to claim under SBL-Khas, subject to HRD Corp approval. Talk to us about planning ahead.
Does training have to be in person to claim?
No. HRD Corp allows claimable training in multiple modes, including in-person, virtual and blended, provided the programme meets HRD Corp requirements and is registered correctly.
Can I plan training now and claim later?
You can plan now and we will keep you posted as our HRD Corp registration completes. Always confirm with HRD Corp directly before committing the training spend if claimability is critical to your decision.
Last reviewed: 5 June 2026 by Prashant Shinde, Founder, ICAgile accredited and HRD Corp Accredited Trainer. This page is a plain-English guide and is not legal or tax advice. Always confirm current HRD Corp rules directly with HRD Corp.