Front row, from left) Industrial Court Malaysia president Datuk Wan Jeffry Kassim, HRd Corp chief human resources officer and HRD Awards 2024 project director Siti Suryati Kama Asnawi, HRD Corp chairman Datuk Abu Huraira Abu Yazid, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Human Resources Ministry secretary-general Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof, HRD Corp chief executive Datuk Shahul Dawood and Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) deputy chief executive (strategy & corporate) Edmund Cheong Peck Huang celebrating with the HRD Awards 2024 winners on Nov 7. — Photos by GLENN GUAN/The Star
The HRD Awards celebrates 36 winners for pushing the boundaries of talent development
TO retain and show appreciation for their talent, CIBA Vision Johor Sdn Bhd emphasises continuous investment in employee development.
The company’s general manager Dr James Jeyadeva Govindasamy said that their aim is to not only foster professional growth but also support their employees’ personal development.
“Focusing solely on functional or technical skills isn’t enough, as anyone can offer that. We also prioritise their well-being and sense of self-worth by showing them they’re more than just their current roles.
“This way, employees see tangible value and recognise positive changes within themselves,” said James, adding that the company’s efforts include robust internship and employee assistance programmes, supported by partnerships and collaborations.
CIBA Vision Johor took home the Excellence Award in Diversity and Inclusion for Large Employers and the HRD Corporation Award for the Southern Region at the recent HRD Awards 2024.
The Awards, hosted by the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp), was held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) on Nov 7.
For Alpha Industry Sdn Bhd integrating new technologies is crucial in a rapidly changing industry as it not only strengthens operational capabilities but also helps retain talent by offering growth and development opportunities.
The company won the Human Resources Minister Award for SME Employers, and its finance director, Yeo Sang Ching, emphasised the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of their operations.
“With the increasing focus on AI, we recognise its potential to enhance our efficiency.
“We align our efforts with the government’s vision of raising the standard of living for Malaysians, ensuring that our workforce is well-prepared and skilled for the future. This approach involves not only adopting advanced technologies but also supporting our employees in their career growth.”
Yeo also highlighted Alpha Industry’s tailored approach to training, which caters to a diverse range of employees across various roles.
“Given that we operate in multiple regions and serve various categories of employees—operators, executives, engineers, and managers—we’ve tailored specific training programmes for each level. This customisation enables us to meet the distinct needs of each role.”
Taking home the Excellence Award in Learning Tech Advancement System for SME Employers was Herh Fuah (Sabah) Sdn Bhd, a company that emphasises persistence in its training approach.
The company’s managing director Veno Lim strongly believes in never giving up on the team.
“No matter how challenging it may seem, providing training opportunities consistently allows employees to grow and improve over time.”
Lim added that continuous improvement is also important for the management team. “It’s essential that management keeps learning to set an example and help foster an environment of growth.”
A symbol of professional excellence
In today’s ever-evolving world, talent development has transcended the role of a mere corporate obligation. It has become an essential cornerstone of national prosperity, where a skilled, adaptable workforce fuels both innovation and economic growth.
Since its inception in 2001, the HRD Awards has been shining the spotlight on leading corporations and organisations that set new standards in this transformative journey, particularly for recognising and nurturing the human capital.
The annual celebration has evolved from a simple recognition programme into a symbol of professional excellence - an affirmation of Malaysia’s commitment to creating a resilient, forward-looking workforce.
This year, the awards reached a new milestone with a record-breaking 493 submissions, a 33.6% increase from the previous year.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, in his speech, said that the companies are not just improving their internal workforce capabilities but also innovating and setting new benchmarks in human resources.
“These efforts underscore Malaysia’s leadership in the Asean region as we push the boundaries of talent development and highlight our nation’s ability to build a workforce that is both agile and future-ready.”
He also reminded them to continue leveraging on opportunities such as digital learning platforms, AI-driven training tools, and global collaborations to nurture a talent pool that is both locally empowered and globally competitive, thereby pushing forward with the vision of a more inclusive and dynamic workforce.
HRD Corp chairman Datuk Abu Huraira Abu Yazid said, “For many years, HRD Corp has been dedicated to elevating Malaysia’s workforce by championing initiatives that nurture talent, improve skills, and encourage growth across all sectors. “This journey has been about enabling Malaysians from every corner of the country to access meaningful learning opportunities, preparing them to face challenges, adapt to rapid changes, and seize new opportunities in an ever-evolving landscape.“Tonight’s prestigious event serves as a testament to our commitment to advancing Malaysia’s human capital, showcasing the hard work, passion, and achievements of those leading the way in the realm of human resource development.”
This year at HRD Awards 2024, a total of 36 exemplary organisations, training providers, and trainers were recognised across four categories: the Human Resources Minister Award, the Human Resource Development Corporation Award, the Excellence Awards, and the Special Recognition Award in Learning and Development.
The selection process was rigorous, with 14 judges comprising HRD Corp senior leaders and industry experts from prominent organisations, including the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF), SME Corporation Malaysia (SME Corp), Talent Corporation Malaysia Bhd (TalentCorp), and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC).
Fadillah commended both winners and finalists, adding that their achievements are a source of pride and inspiration to all.
BASF Asia-Pacific Service Centre Sdn Bhd talent management director (Asia Pacific) Sabrina Fehres (second from left) receiving the award from Azman, flanked by Siti Suryati and Shahul (right).
Bosch Rexroth Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Darren Chan celebrating the award with (from left) Siti Suryati, Abu Huraira, Fadillah, Azman and Shahul.
Thames Oxford Academy chief executive officer Zainudin Kadir (second from left) receiving the award from Azman, as Siti Suryati and Shahul (right) look on.
Swinburne Sarawak Sdn Bhd human resources director Andrea Sim (third from right) celebrating the award with (from left) Siti Suryati, Abu Huraira, Fadillah, Azman and Shahul.
PETRONAS Technical Training Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Mohamad Nasir (second from left) receiving the award from Azman, as Siti Suryati and Shahul (right) look on.
Herh Fuah (Sabah) Sdn Bhd director Lim Kiang Pang (second from left) receiving the award from Azman as Siti Suryati and Shahul (right) look on.
Peoplelogy Development Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Cally Yau (second from left) receiving the award from Azman, as Siti Suryati and Shahul (right) look on.
Denso (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd administration division director Mohamad Roslan Mohamad Nasir (third from right) celebrating the award with (from left) Siti Suryati, Abu Huraira, Fadillah, Azman and Shahul.
CIBA Vision Johor Sdn Bhd general manager Dr James Jeyadeva Govindasamy (second from left) receiving the award from Azman, flanked by Siti Suryati and Shahul (right).
