Johor Bahru, Malaysia – SKS Hospitality revealed today the initiation of Project HELANG, a new initiative aimed at providing disadvantaged youth skills development and employment opportunities within the hospitality industry. As the programme is named after an eagle “helang” in ‘Bahasa Malaysia’, it aims to uplift the participants under three initiatives namely: Little HELANG, Junior HELANG and Senior HELANG. It aims at providing educational intervention, skill development and employment-guaranteed programmes, thus, fulfilling the vision of SKS hospitality to “create spaces wherever you belong”.
Meera Raj, the Head of SKS Hospitality, “Education is the powerful weapon that puts an end to every problem; it is our focus that we with Project HELANG encourage education not just for our staff but also for the local population to help them in crafting their destiny.”
A Competitive All-Inclusive Focus for Success
Little HELANG is fundamentally concerned with children ages 7 to 12 years, to whom the provision of quality primary and secondary education complemented with nutritional support is targeted. In collaboration with the Johor State Education Department, SKS Hospitality integrates technology in learning and supplies instructional materials in resource-challenged schools. The programme is designed to be friendly while providing an enabling atmosphere meant to spark interest and a drive among children.
Junior HELANG brings together formal education and applied hospitality training for young people aged 18-20 years old from B40 families. The participants complete a one-year period of training that encompasses housekeeping, front office, food and beverage, and kitchen work where they finally end with a certificate and direct placement in any of the hotels owned by SKS Hospitality.
Senior HELANG, which is designed for hospitality professionals from B40 families beyond the undergraduate level, prepares the participants for managing roles. Within the parameters of the program, leadership practice, operations, and practical placements that take the graduates overseas are incorporated so that the participants meet the international standards of the industry.
A Commitment to Lifong Impact
Project HELANG is one of the demonstrations of SKS Hospitality fulfilling its mission and intends to make a difference in the world. By offering support, validated qualifications and practical experiences, the initiative tackles the educational divide and creates an employable workforce that is diverse.
“Success for Project HELANG will be seeing our participants flourish in their work and academic pursuits,” added Meera Raj. “We wish for our people to see SKS Hospitality as a true Isle of Hope – a space that is open to all and meets everyone’s requirements.”
As the hospitality business of SKS Hospitality grows, so will its desire to support communities. Project HELANG illustrates its aim of creating a more inclusive future where, most importantly, the youth are equipped with the tools needed to overcome any challenge in their lives.
