What changed
HRD Corp has issued Employer's Circular No. 3/2026, dated 18 August 2026, requiring employers and training providers conducting training programmes with HRD Corp financial assistance to play patriotic songs at the start of every training session.
The initiative is introduced in conjunction with the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations, and is intended to foster patriotism, unity and national identity among Malaysia's workforce, in line with the Malaysia MADANI values.
Who is affected
The Circular applies to all employers and training providers running training programmes that have been approved for HRD Corp financial assistance — including training conducted online.
This means the requirement is not limited to physical/in-person classes; virtual or online HRD Corp-funded sessions must also comply.
What employers and training providers must do
Two patriotic songs must be played at the beginning of each training session: 'Negaraku' and 'Generasi Muda - Aku Kasih Malaysia'. These may be obtained from official materials provided by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM).
The songs must be played in an orderly and appropriate manner before the training session begins.
Employers and training providers must ensure this requirement is communicated to all relevant trainers, facilitators and participants.
HRD Corp has indicated that compliance may be subject to monitoring and verification, so organisations should keep this in mind when planning and conducting HRD Corp-funded sessions.
Effective dates and duration
The Circular takes effect immediately from its date of issuance and remains in force until 16 September 2026, covering the period of the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations.
HRD Corp has stated it may review, extend, modify or discontinue this requirement after the stated period, depending on implementation needs and effectiveness.
Where to get the songs and more information
Video versions of both songs are made available via QR code or download link in the official Circular document published by HRD Corp.
For further clarification or assistance, employers and training providers can contact HRD Corp's Support Team via support@hrdcorp.gov.my or 1300 88 4800.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HRD Corp Employer's Circular No. 3/2026 about?
It's a circular requiring employers and training providers to play patriotic songs at the start of every HRD Corp-funded training session, in conjunction with the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations.
Which training programmes are affected by this HRD Corp requirement?
All training programmes approved for HRD Corp financial assistance are affected, including those conducted online, not just in-person sessions.
Which patriotic songs must be played under this HRD Corp circular?
'Negaraku' and 'Generasi Muda - Aku Kasih Malaysia' must be played at the start of each training session. Official video materials are available via RTM as referenced in the circular.
How long is the HRD Corp patriotic songs requirement in effect?
The Circular takes effect immediately from 18 August 2026 and remains in force until 16 September 2026. HRD Corp may review, extend, modify or discontinue the requirement afterward.
Is compliance with this HRD Corp circular monitored?
Yes, the circular states that compliance may be subject to monitoring and verification by HRD Corp, so employers and training providers should ensure the requirement is communicated to trainers, facilitators and participants.