SKS Hospitality Launches Project HELANG To Empower Underprivileged Youth
BUSINESSTODAY
5 December 2024
HOTEL
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SKS Hospitality Launches Project HELANG To Empower Underprivileged Youth
SKS Hospitality has introduced Project HELANG, an initiative aimed at providing educational and career opportunities for underprivileged youth, aligning with its mission of fostering lifelong learning and community growth.
“Project HELANG,” which stands for Harnessing Education for Lifelong Achievement and Nurturing Growth, is inspired by the strength of the eagle (“helang” in Bahasa Malaysia) and comprises three targeted programs: Little HELANG, Junior HELANG, and Senior HELANG. These programs are designed to nurture young talents and equip them with skills to build successful futures, particularly in the hospitality industry.
Focusing on Education and Career Development
Little HELANG supports children aged 7–12 by enhancing educational opportunities in schools identified by the Johor State Education Department as underprivileged. This includes repairing facilities, upgrading classrooms, and providing learning materials such as books and audio-visual equipment to foster curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
Junior HELANG and Senior HELANG cater to individuals from B40 families. Junior HELANG offers an entry-level pathway for participants aged 18–20 with no formal education requirements, combining classroom learning with hands-on training in hospitality departments. Senior HELANG targets hospitality graduates, equipping them with leadership skills and international exposure to fast-track their progression into supervisory roles.
Both programs offer mentorship, real-world training in SKS Hospitality’s hotels, and industry-recognized certifications, creating a direct route to employment within the group’s portfolio.
A Commitment to Community Impact
“Project HELANG started as a discussion about our ESG goals and how we could make a genuine impact,” said Meera Raj, Head of SKS Hospitality. “This initiative goes beyond box-ticking to create long-term change by supporting education and career development. Our goal is to help young Malaysians thrive and build meaningful futures in hospitality.”
Looking Ahead
SKS Hospitality emphasized its commitment to expanding Project HELANG as its hotel portfolio grows, ensuring the initiative continues to make a positive impact on communities.
“Success for Project HELANG,” Raj added, “will be seeing participants secure roles within our hotels and thrive in their educational and professional journeys. It’s about creating a legacy of inclusivity and progress.”
