HRDF Registration Guide — How to Register Your Company 2026

Why Register with HRDF?

HRDF (Human Resources Development Fund) registration is mandatory for most Malaysian employers with 10 or more employees. But even for companies below the threshold, voluntary registration unlocks valuable training subsidies.

When you register, your company contributes 1% of monthly payroll as a levy. This levy is then available to claim back for employee training and development. Think of it as a forced savings account for training — you put money in, and you get it back when you invest in your team's skills.

Who Must Register with HRDF?

Mandatory Registration

Under the Pembangunan Sumber Manusia Berhad Act 2001, registration is mandatory for:

• Companies in manufacturing with 50+ Malaysian employees
• Companies in non-manufacturing sectors with 10+ Malaysian employees
• Companies in sectors gazetted under the PSMB Act

Voluntary Registration

Companies below the mandatory threshold can register voluntarily. This is recommended for growing companies that want to:

• Access HRDF training subsidies early
• Build a training culture from the start
• Attract employees who value professional development

HRDF Registration Process

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

• Company registration documents (SSM, BRN, or CIDB certificate)
• List of all Malaysian employees with IC numbers
• Company bank account details
• Authorised signatory details
• Latest EPF contribution records

Step 2: Submit Registration Online

1. Visit the HRDF e-TRIS portal
2. Click "Employer Registration"
3. Fill in company details and upload required documents
4. Submit the registration application

Step 3: HRDF Reviews Your Application

HRDF processes registration applications within 14-21 working days. They may contact you for additional documents or clarification.

Step 4: Receive Registration Confirmation

Once approved, you receive your HRDF employer registration number. Your levy contributions begin from the effective registration month.

Step 5: Start Contributing and Claiming

After registration, HRDF deducts the 1% levy from your payroll. You can begin submitting training grant applications through e-TRIS immediately.

HRDF Levy Calculation

The levy is straightforward: 1% of each Malaysian employee's monthly wages.

Key point: Your levy balance is what you can claim back for training. A company contributing RM2,000/month has RM24,000 annually for employee development.

Registration for Training Providers

Training providers who want to deliver HRDF-claimable programmes must also register with PSMB. The process is separate from employer registration.

Training Provider Requirements

• Registered business in Malaysia (SSM)
• At least one HRDF certified trainer on staff
• Training premises meeting PSMB standards
• Curriculum approved by PSMB for the specific training area

Common Registration Questions

How long does HRDF registration take?

The standard processing time is 14-21 working days after submitting a complete application. Incomplete applications may take longer.

Can foreign companies register?

Yes, companies registered in Malaysia with Malaysian employees can register regardless of foreign ownership.

What happens if I do not register when mandatory?

Companies that fail to register when required may face penalties under the PSMB Act, including backdated levy payments.

How Pertama Partners Can Help

Pertama Partners assists companies with HRDF registration and helps plan training programmes that maximise your levy utilisation. Contact us to discuss how AI and digital skills training can be funded through your HRDF levy.