Can You Claim HRDF for Annual Dinner?
Many Malaysian companies combine their annual dinner (D&D) with a team building component and wonder if HRDF covers it. Short answer: the dinner and entertainment are NOT claimable, but if you add a structured training session during the event, THAT portion can be claimed under SBL-Khas.
The Short Answer
No, HRDF does not cover annual dinners. But if you embed a structured training session into the same event, the training portion CAN be claimed separately. The dinner, entertainment, venue decor, and social programme remain non-claimable.
What Is and Is Not Claimable
| Component | Claimable? |
|---|---|
| Structured team building session (with debrief) | Yes |
| TTT-certified trainer fees | Yes |
| Training materials | Yes |
| Dinner / buffet | No |
| Entertainment (band, MC, performers) | No |
| Awards ceremony | No |
| Venue decor / AV for dinner | No |
| Lucky draw / gifts | No |
How to Structure an Annual Dinner With a Claimable Component
- Run the training BEFORE dinner: e.g., 2 PM - 6 PM structured workshop → 7 PM dinner. Keep them as separate events on the same day.
- Separate invoices: training provider invoices the workshop portion; event company invoices the dinner. Only the training invoice goes to HRD Corp.
- Use a TTT-certified trainer: the afternoon workshop must have a registered facilitator.
- Document attendance for training only: sign-in/sign-out for the workshop, not the dinner.
- Submit to eTRiS as SBL-Khas: the grant application references only the training session, not the dinner event.
Example: Annual Dinner + Team Building Combo
- 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Arrival + team registration at hotel
- 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Facilitated team building workshop (CLAIMABLE - 3 hours)
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Break + change for dinner
- 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM: Annual dinner, awards, entertainment (NOT claimable)
Training claim: ~RM 200 - 400/pax for the 3-hour workshop. Dinner cost: separate budget.
Related Guides
HRDF Claimable Packages
Sourced directly from vendor websites — updated automatically. Prices may vary by group size and date.
| Package | Price | Duration | Pax | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Redefine Learning Asia - Team Building Malaysia Easy Hike / Forest Walk: Reset + Real ConversationsHRDF Choose an easy trail and focus on reflection questions. Pair people up and rotate partners every 10–15 minutes. | RM50/pax | Half Day | 10-30 | Get Package → |
Vision Building Team Building & Training Team TriviaHRDF Teams answer questions on pop culture, company facts, or local history. | RM80/pax | 30 min | 6-30 | Get Package → |
Top Build Team Building-HRD Corp Claimable Customer Service Training in Malaysia HRDF Claimable & CustomizableHRDF Top Build Team Global offers a customer service training program that is fully customizable and HRDF claimable, designed to enhance your team's customer service skills. | RM100/pax | Full Day | 10-20 | Get Package → |
Escape Room ChallengesHRDF An all-time favourite, escape room team building fosters communication, critical thinking, and leadership. Teams must collaborate to solve puzzles under pressure, a perfect reflection of corporate realities. | RM100/pax | 2 Hours | 8-16 | Get Package → |
Indoor Workshop InnovationsHRDF An interactive workshop focused on creative problem-solving and innovation. | RM120/pax | Half Day | 15-40 | Get Package → |
BEACH CLEANING CSR – CLEAN TOGETHER, IMPACT TOGETHERHRDF Beach Cleaning CSR is a meaningful team-building experience that combines teamwork, environmental responsibility and community impact. Participants work together to clean and restore the beach, encouraging communication, collaboration, leadership and a shared sense of purpose while making a positive contribution to the environment. More than just a CSR activity, it creates a rewarding experience where teams can work together, give back and make a visible difference. Clean Together. Care Together. Make an Impact. | RM150/pax | Half Day | 10-999 | Get Package → |
Prices sourced from vendor websites · click "Get Package" to get a direct quote
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