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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. Here is exactly how to structure it.
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.
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