SKS Hospitality is proud to announce the launch of Project HELANG, an inspiring initiative dedicated to providing educational and career opportunities for underprivileged youth. Inspired by the strength and vision of the eagle – known as “helang” in Bahasa Malaysia, Project HELANG stands for Harnessing Education for Lifelong Achievement and Nurturing Growth. With three targeted programmes – Little HELANG, Junior HELANG, and Senior HELANG – Project HELANG aims to create lasting change by nurturing young talents, equipping them with skills and knowledge that can shape their future in the hospitality industry. The initiative is closely aligned with SKS Hospitality’s brand manifesto, “Where You Belong,” creating spaces where every individual, from guests to community members, feels seen, supported, and valued.
“Project HELANG started as a discussion about our ESG goals and how we could make a genuine impact,” explained Meera Raj, Head of SKS Hospitality. “We didn’t want to simply tick boxes or engage in one-off activities. Instead, we sought to create a programme that would genuinely move the grassroots and have a long-term impact. SKS Hospitality is part of the SKS Group, where lifelong learning is a core value. Education is the key to changing lives and circumstances, and with the resources we have, we recognised our potential to offer golden opportunities. Project HELANG is about enabling lifelong learning – not just within our team but also extending this to others, giving them the chance to reshape their futures. It is about being a place ‘Where You Belong,’ where everyone, especially our youth, can find the support they need to thrive.”
Little HELANG supports children aged 7-12 years by providing access to quality education, engaging activities, and holistic development resources. This programme goes beyond traditional educational support by creating a safe and comfortable learning environment. Schools selected for Little HELANG are identified by the Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Johor as being underprivileged or in need. SKS Hospitality is dedicated to improving these schools through essential repairs, classroom enhancements, and the provision of audio-visual technology to enrich the learning experience. Additionally, the initiative includes providing essential learning materials, such as books, stationery, and educational kits, to ensure that these young learners have the tools they need to succeed. By fostering curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, Little HELANG aims to build a strong foundation that empowers these children to dream bigger and aim higher.
The Junior and Senior HELANG programmes offer a 12-month pathway to success in the hospitality industry, blending classroom learning with practical experience. In collaboration with a renowned tertiary education institution, providing participants with industry-recognised credentials. A key component of the programme is the hands-on internship placement in one of SKS Hospitality’s internationally branded hotels, ensuring that participants gain real-world experience in a professional setting.
Junior HELANG is open to individuals aged 18-20 from B40 families, with no formal education requirements. This programme blends classroom learning with hands-on training across key hospitality departments, such as housekeeping, front office, food and beverage, and kitchen operations. During the first six months, participants experience a structured rotation, gaining broad exposure to various hotel functions. They then specialise in a department of their choice, receiving focused mentorship and practical experience. Graduates earn a recognised certificate and direct placement into a rank-and-file role within a local hotel in the SKS Hospitality portfolio, setting them on a clear path to a fulfilling career.
Senior HELANG is tailored for hospitality graduates from B40 families, offering a fast-track to supervisory roles. This programme builds on their educational foundation, providing deeper industry insights and leadership skills. Participants start with rotations across operational departments, progressing to supervisory training where they lead small teams and manage key responsibilities. The programme culminates in an international cross-internship, offering exposure to global hospitality standards. Upon completion, graduates are placed directly into supervisory roles, ensuring a seamless transition to leadership positions in the hospitality sector.
Project HELANG is not just an initiative – it is a commitment to building a more inclusive and skilled workforce. By bridging the education gap and offering mentorship, training, and recognised certifications, SKS Hospitality is investing in the future of young Malaysians. The initiative aligns with the company’s mission to foster a culture of learning and growth, both within its organisation and in the communities it serves.
“Success for Project HELANG will be seeing our Junior and Senior HELANG participants securing roles in one of our hotels and watching our Little HELANG children flourish in their educational journeys. It’s about being able to check in on them later and see how they are thriving, knowing that we’ve made a real difference. We want our community to recognise SKS Hospitality as a company with a heart – one that genuinely cares about their progress. And as our hospitality portfolio expands, so too will our positive impact on the communities where we operate. We want to be known as a place ‘Where You Belong,’ not only for our guests but for the communities that we serve,” said Meera.
