AI training funding in Southeast Asia.

Corporate training in Malaysia is increasingly focused on AI and digital transformation. With HRDF claimable programmes, companies can upskill their entire team in AI at zero net cost. This guide covers the best corporate AI training options, HRDF claim process, and how to choose the right programme for your business.

The HRDF levy is a mandatory contribution that funds employee training in Malaysia. Understanding how the levy works, how much your company contributes, exemption rules, and how to maximise your levy utilisation is essential for HR leaders and finance teams. This guide covers everything about HRDF contributions.

Registering your company with HRDF is the first step to accessing Malaysia's training levy system. Once registered, you can claim back training costs through the SBL and SBL-Khas schemes. This guide covers the registration process, requirements, and how to get started.

Becoming an HRDF certified trainer opens doors to delivering HRDF claimable training programmes across Malaysia. The Train the Trainer (TTT) programme is the pathway to HRDF certification. This guide covers requirements, the certification process, and how to register as an HRDF trainer.

Claiming your HRDF training grant does not have to be complicated. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire HRDF claim process — from pre-approval to reimbursement — including claim guidelines, required documents, common rejection reasons, and tips for faster processing.

Team building programmes in Malaysia can be fully HRDF claimable when structured as skills development initiatives. This guide explains which team building packages qualify, how to structure your programme for HRDF approval, and the claim process from start to finish.

Healthcare providers in Malaysia can access HRDF subsidies for AI training that improves patient care, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance while maintaining strict data privacy standards.

Strategic guide to maximizing return on investment from HRDF-funded AI training. Learn how to calculate ROI, track impact, and ensure training translates to business results.

Technology companies in Malaysia can leverage HRDF to upskill developers, product managers, and technical teams in AI capabilities - from machine learning fundamentals to production deployment.

Professional services firms in Malaysia - including consulting, legal, accounting, and advisory - can leverage HRDF subsidies to enhance service delivery, automate routine tasks, and scale expertise with AI.

The Human Resource Development Fund (HRDF) provides comprehensive training subsidies for Malaysian employers. Claim up to RM10,500 per day per trainer for AI transformation training, making it one of Southeast Asia's most generous corporate training subsidies.

Manufacturing companies in Malaysia can leverage HRDF subsidies to implement AI-powered quality control, predictive maintenance, and supply chain optimization without significant capital investment.

Discover the complete catalog of HRDF-claimable AI training programs from Pertama Partners. From executive briefings to technical workshops, all our AI courses qualify for maximum HRDF subsidies.

Small and Medium Enterprises in Malaysia can access enhanced HRDF subsidies through the SBL-KHAS scheme. Get up to 100% training cost coverage for AI transformation, significantly reducing your digital adoption barriers.

Financial services institutions in Malaysia can leverage HRDF subsidies for specialized AI training that addresses regulatory requirements, risk management, and customer experience transformation.

Comparing HRDF (Malaysia) and SkillsFuture (Singapore) training subsidies for AI transformation. Understand which program offers better value for your organization's needs.

Singapore SMEs qualify for enhanced training subsidies through the Enhanced Training Support for SMEs (ETSS) scheme. This means 90% course fee subsidies for all employees regardless of age, higher Absentee Payroll rates, and priority access to SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit. Here is how to maximise your SME training budget.

AI is a national priority under Singapore's National AI Strategy 2.0, and SkillsFuture offers extensive subsidies for AI and artificial intelligence training. From foundational AI literacy to advanced machine learning, these SSG-funded courses prepare individuals and teams for an AI-driven economy.

Python and coding skills are gateway competencies for AI, data science, and automation careers. SkillsFuture-subsidised coding courses in Singapore offer beginner-friendly to advanced programming training at up to 90% off — making it affordable to learn the most in-demand language in tech.

Data analytics is a high-demand skill in Singapore with strong salary prospects and growing AI integration. SkillsFuture-subsidised data analytics courses cover everything from Excel and SQL to machine learning and business intelligence — at up to 90% off course fees.

Digital marketing is one of the most popular SkillsFuture course categories in Singapore. From SEO and social media marketing to Google Ads and content strategy, these SSG-subsidised courses help professionals and career changers build in-demand digital skills at up to 90% off.

Yes, you can get paid to learn in Singapore. Through the SkillsFuture training allowance, mid-career Singaporeans pursuing full-time diploma programmes receive up to $3,000 per month in income support. Combined with course fee subsidies, this means you can upskill at zero cost while receiving a monthly stipend.

The SkillsFuture Level Up Programme provides Singapore Citizens aged 40-60 with a $4,000 SkillsFuture Credit top-up to pursue a diploma or professional certification. Combined with training allowances and enhanced subsidies, this programme makes career transitions financially viable for mid-career workers.

SSG (SkillsFuture Singapore) administers the Skills Development Fund and a range of training subsidies for employers and individuals. This complete guide explains how SSG funding works, who qualifies, and how to access course fee subsidies, Absentee Payroll grants, and enterprise credits for AI and digital skills training.

Singapore seniors and retirees have access to generous SkillsFuture subsidies for courses in AI, digital skills, and more. With enhanced credits, mid-career subsidies, and programmes designed for older learners, there has never been a better time for seniors to upskill. This guide covers every funding option available.

Singapore offers some of the most generous corporate training subsidies in Southeast Asia. Through SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit, SSG course fee funding, and the Enhanced Training Support for SMEs, companies can access AI training programmes at 70-90% subsidised rates. This guide covers every funding pathway available for corporate training in Singapore.

SkillsFuture is Singapore's national movement to provide citizens with opportunities to develop their fullest potential throughout life. Claim up to 90% subsidies for AI training and use your SkillsFuture Credit for lifelong learning.

Every Singaporean aged 25 and above has SkillsFuture Credit. Learn how to use it for AI training courses and maximize your lifelong learning journey.

AI is revolutionizing healthcare delivery in Singapore, from diagnostics to operations. This industry-specific guide covers SkillsFuture-funded AI training for healthcare professionals, addressing clinical applications, patient privacy, and regulatory compliance.

Frontline employees need practical AI skills to stay relevant and productive. This guide covers SkillsFuture-funded AI training for individual contributors, helping you master AI tools, automate routine tasks, and advance your career.

Singapore executives need AI fluency to lead digital transformation. This guide covers SkillsFuture-funded AI training tailored for C-suite and senior leadership, focusing on strategic decision-making, governance, and organizational change management.

HR leaders face pressure to upskill teams in AI while managing tight budgets. This guide helps Learning & Development professionals navigate Malaysia HRDF, Singapore SkillsFuture, and regional funding programs to maximize training ROI.

Moving from funding knowledge to action requires a structured plan. This 90-day implementation guide walks HR teams and managers through launching government-funded AI training programs using HRDF, SkillsFuture, and SFEC.

Managers are the bridge between executive AI strategy and frontline execution. This guide covers SkillsFuture-funded AI training for managers, enabling you to lead AI adoption, manage AI-powered teams, and drive operational transformation.

Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) is Singapore's national credential system for industry-recognized skills. This guide covers WSQ-certified AI courses eligible for SkillsFuture funding, helping you earn recognized qualifications while building AI expertise.

Most professionals don't realize they can combine multiple funding sources for completely free AI training. This tactical guide shows exactly how to stack HRDF, SkillsFuture Credit, MCES, and SFEC to achieve 100% coverage.

SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) provides Singapore employers with S$10,000 to upskill employees in AI and emerging technologies. This employer-focused guide explains how to claim SFEC, maximize your credit, and train teams in artificial intelligence capabilities.

Southeast Asian governments offer substantial AI training subsidies to build competitive workforces. This comprehensive comparison helps companies and professionals navigate HRDF (Malaysia), SkillsFuture (Singapore), Kartu Prakerja (Indonesia), and other regional funding programs.

Singapore's Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES) provides up to 90% funding for mid-career workers aged 40 and above pursuing AI and digital transformation training. This comprehensive guide explains eligibility, application process, and how to maximize your MCES benefits for AI upskilling.

Government-subsidized AI training delivers exceptional ROI—often 300-500% within 12 months. This guide helps companies and professionals calculate expected returns from HRDF and SkillsFuture-funded AI training programs.

AI is transforming banking, insurance, and wealth management across Singapore. This industry-specific guide covers SkillsFuture-funded AI training for financial services professionals, from frontline staff to senior leaders.

Callaghan Innovation is New Zealand's innovation agency, providing R&D grants and capability-building support for businesses adopting AI. This guide covers how NZ businesses can access funding for AI training, strategy, and implementation projects.

The Small Business AI Pilot program provides fully-funded AI training and pilot support for small Australian businesses. Designed for businesses with fewer than 20 employees, this program removes cost barriers to AI adoption.

The AI Activator program supports Australian businesses in building internal AI capabilities through training, strategic planning, and pilot implementations. This guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, funding amounts, and application process.

Workforce Australia provides subsidized training pathways for workers and businesses looking to develop AI skills. This guide explains how to access government-subsidized AI training, including state-specific programs and employer incentives.

The Australian Government's AI Adopt program helps small and medium businesses integrate artificial intelligence into their operations. This guide covers eligibility, application process, and how to maximize your funding for AI training and implementation.

Thailand offers several visa pathways specifically designed to attract AI specialists, digital talent, and high-skilled professionals. The Smart Visa programme, Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa, and BOI work permit facilitation together create a comprehensive framework for companies seeking to bring foreign AI expertise into Thailand. This guide covers every visa programme relevant to AI talent recruitment and how companies can use these alongside BOI investment incentives.

Thailand's manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of the national economy, and the BOI has created powerful incentives to drive Industry 4.0 transformation. This guide covers BOI incentives for smart manufacturing, automation, robotics, and AI-powered production — including the combined benefits available in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and how training investments in AI amplify your BOI package.

Thailand's BOI offers targeted incentives for financial services companies investing in fintech, digital banking, insurtech, and AI-powered financial operations. Through Regional Operating Headquarters (ROH), International Business Centre (IBC), and fintech-specific promotion categories, financial institutions can access significant tax benefits while building AI capabilities. This guide details every BOI incentive relevant to the financial services sector.

Companies already holding BOI promotion certificates — or those considering applying — can use BOI incentives to dramatically reduce the cost of AI training for their Thai workforce. This guide explains how HR and L&D leaders at BOI-promoted companies can leverage the 200% training expense deduction, earn additional CIT exemption years through training investment, and bring in foreign AI experts through BOI work permit facilitation.

Thailand's Board of Investment offers some of the most generous incentives in ASEAN for companies investing in artificial intelligence. Under BOI Activity 5.10 and related digital technology categories, AI companies can receive up to 8 years of corporate income tax exemption with no cap, plus additional benefits for R&D and staff training. This guide details every AI-specific BOI incentive available in 2026.

The Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI) is the principal government agency responsible for encouraging investment in Thailand through a comprehensive package of tax and non-tax incentives. This guide covers the full scope of BOI investment promotion — from corporate income tax exemptions to training expense deductions — and how companies investing in AI and digital technology can maximise their benefits under the Thailand 4.0 strategy.

Thailand's Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) leads the country's digital transformation initiative, offering subsidies, training programmes, and Smart City projects that develop AI and digital skills. This guide covers depa's digital economy programmes, Thailand 4.0 workforce development, and how organisations can access funding for digital transformation.

Thai manufacturers can access government-funded AI training through DSD centres, the 200% tax deduction, and special incentives under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) programme. This guide covers Industry 4.0 training pathways, smart factory skills, and how to build AI capabilities in Thailand's manufacturing workforce.

Thai banks, insurance companies, and fintech firms can leverage Thailand's national skills development system to build AI capabilities while maximising government incentives. This guide covers relevant training programmes, regulatory alignment with Bank of Thailand and SEC Thailand requirements, and how financial institutions can claim the 200% tax deduction for AI training.

Thai companies can leverage Thailand's national skills development system to train their workforce in AI at significantly reduced cost. With the 200% tax deduction for qualifying training, free government training centres, and depa digital transformation grants, the effective cost of AI upskilling can approach zero. This guide explains how HR leaders can maximise these benefits.

Thailand's government offers a growing catalogue of AI and digital skills courses through DSD training centres, depa programmes, and university partnerships under the Thailand 4.0 initiative. This guide covers every major AI training pathway available through Thailand's national skills system in 2026.

Thailand's National Skill Development Authority (NSDA), operating through the Department of Skill Development under the Ministry of Labour, is the country's primary body for workforce training and skills certification. This comprehensive guide covers Thailand's skill development system, training centres, certification pathways, and how employers and individuals can access government-funded AI and digital skills training in 2026.

DOLE's livelihood programs — including the Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) and Kabuhayan initiatives — provide grants, starter kits, and skills training to help Filipino workers build sustainable income sources. In 2026, these programs have expanded to include AI and digital skills components for technology-enabled livelihoods.

DOLE operates specialised programs targeting the Philippines' most vulnerable workforce segments — displaced overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), youth, and indigenous peoples. This guide covers JobStart Philippines, OFW reintegration programs, and AI-focused skills training opportunities for special worker groups.

Philippine companies can leverage DOLE programs to subsidise workforce training, access employment incentives, and build AI capabilities at reduced cost. This guide explains how HR leaders and business owners can tap into DOLE-AKAP, SPES, and enterprise-based training partnerships for AI and digital skills development.

TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers) is DOLE's emergency employment program that provides temporary livelihood and skills training to displaced and disadvantaged Filipino workers. This guide explains how the program works, how companies can participate, and the training opportunities available.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is the Philippine government's executive department responsible for labour policy, employment services, and workforce development. This comprehensive guide covers every major DOLE training and employment program available in 2026, including TUPAD, JobStart, SPES, and enterprise-based training partnerships.

Philippine manufacturers can access TESDA-funded AI training to build Industry 4.0 capabilities. This guide covers relevant TESDA programs for manufacturing AI — from quality inspection with computer vision to predictive maintenance and supply chain optimisation.

Philippine banks, insurance companies, and fintech firms can leverage TESDA programs to train employees in AI skills specific to financial services. This guide covers relevant TESDA courses, enterprise training options, and how to build AI capabilities in your financial services workforce.

TESDA offers three major scholarship programs — TWSP, PESFA, and STEP — that can fully fund AI and digital skills training for Filipino workers. This guide explains each program's benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for AI-related courses.

Philippine companies can leverage TESDA programs to train their workforce in AI and digital skills at little to no cost. This guide explains how HR leaders and L&D teams can access TESDA enterprise-based training, register as training partners, and maximise the value of government-funded AI upskilling.

TESDA has expanded its course catalog to include AI, data analytics, and digital transformation skills. This guide covers every available AI-related course through TESDA in 2026, including online self-paced programs and in-person training at accredited centres across the Philippines.

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is the Philippine government's primary agency for managing and supervising technical education and skills development. This comprehensive guide covers every TESDA program relevant to AI and digital skills training in 2026, including eligibility, application processes, and how employers can leverage TESDA for workforce upskilling.

Hong Kong professionals can access world-class AI, FinTech, and data science training through CEF-approved courses at leading universities. Explore HK$25,000-subsidized programs from HKU, CUHK, PolyU, and more.

Hong Kong offers two major government training subsidies: CEF for professional development and ERB for vocational training. Understand which program suits your needs, eligibility criteria, and how to maximize both for lifelong learning.

While CEF is an individual benefit, smart HR leaders help employees claim their HK$25,000 subsidy, reducing corporate training costs and increasing participation. Learn how to integrate CEF into your Hong Kong L&D strategy.

The Employees Retraining Board (ERB) offers free or low-cost vocational training for Hong Kong workers, particularly those with secondary education or below. Explore job-specific skills training, career transition programs, and employer hiring incentives.

Hong Kong financial services professionals can access government-subsidized training in FinTech, digital banking, compliance, and data analytics. Explore CEF and ERB programs tailored for banking, insurance, asset management, and wealth management sectors.

Hong Kong professionals in legal, accounting, consulting, and advisory services can leverage CEF and ERB subsidies for AI, data analytics, project management, and industry certifications. Maximize HK$25,000 in government funding for career advancement.

Hong Kong's Continuing Education Fund (CEF) provides up to HK$25,000 in subsidies for professional courses including AI, FinTech, data science, and business skills. Learn how to claim this lifelong learning benefit to advance your career.

Hong Kong employers can receive up to HK$14,000 in incentives per new hire through ERB's First-Hire-Then-Train scheme. Get free pre-trained candidates, hiring subsidies, and on-the-job training support for entry-level positions.

Complete walkthrough of the Kartu Prakerja application process including wave schedules, selection tips, required documents, and how to maximize your chances of being selected for Indonesia's Rp 4.2 million training benefit.

Indonesian workers can access world-class AI training through Kartu Prakerja, including free courses from Microsoft's Talenta AI program. Explore the complete catalog of AI and technology courses available with your Rp 3.5 million training balance.

While Kartu Prakerja is an individual benefit program, forward-thinking HR leaders use it as a strategic tool to upskill their workforce at zero cost. Learn how to integrate Prakerja into your corporate learning strategy and maximize employee participation.

Kartu Prakerja is Indonesia's flagship skills development program that provides individual workers with Rp 4.2 million in training benefits and incentives. Unlike corporate training subsidies, Prakerja puts employees in control of their own professional development through government-funded digital learning.

While Kartu Prakerja is powerful for individual development, Indonesian companies need corporate training solutions for team-based learning. Explore tax deductions, industry partnerships, and private training options for organizational upskilling.

All Vietnamese companies can deduct 150% of training expenses from corporate income tax, even without accessing Decree 80 or 182 subsidies. This guide explains eligibility, calculation, compliance requirements, and strategic use of the 150% CIT deduction.

Comprehensive guide to AI and machine learning training courses available in Vietnam, covering local providers, international platforms, certification programs, and how to access 50% subsidies through Decree 182 and 5-year tax exemptions through the AI Law.

HR leaders in Vietnam face complex choices between Decree 80 (70-100% SME subsidy), Decree 182 (50% high-tech), AI Law tax exemptions, and CIT deductions. This guide provides a clear decision framework to maximize training ROI.

Vietnam offers multiple government funding programs for corporate training, with subsidies ranging from 50% to 100% depending on company size and training type. This comprehensive guide covers all available programs to help HR leaders maximize training ROI.

Vietnam's AI Law, effective March 2026, provides 5-year personal income tax exemption for qualified AI professionals. This guide explains how employers can leverage this benefit for talent attraction, retention, and competitive compensation packages.

Decree 182/2021/ND-CP provides 50% reimbursement for AI, semiconductor, automation, and advanced manufacturing training, with up to VND 100 million per employee annually. This program accelerates Vietnam's high-tech workforce development.

Decree 80/2021/ND-CP provides Vietnamese SMEs with 70-100% training cost coverage, up to VND 50 million per employee annually. This guide explains eligibility, application procedures, and how to maximize this generous SME-focused program.

Manufacturing companies in Vietnam can access generous training subsidies for Industry 4.0, automation, quality management, and technical skills development. This guide covers Decree 80 (SMEs), Decree 182 (high-tech manufacturing), and practical implementation for production environments.