JOHOR BAHRU, October 6 — Twenty-two young Malaysians, many from B40 families, proudly graduated on September 9 as the first cohort of the Akademi Dalam Industri (ADi) apprenticeship programme, formerly known as SLDN.
A collaboration between QSR Brands, Yayasan JCorp, and the Johor State Education Department, the initiative equips upper secondary students with vocational training in KFC restaurants, blending classroom learning with real-world experience.
Graduates walked away with national skills certifications, SPM, and KFC completion certificates, setting them on strong career and education pathways. Launched under the Ministry of Human Resources’ Department of Skills Development, the programme was hailed by Johor State leaders as a model for empowering underprivileged youths.
“This initiative proves that with the right support, our youths can rise above challenges and shape their destinies,” said YB Tuan Aznan Tamin. QSR Brands Chief People Officer Dr. Sharifah Musainah Syed Alwi added that the milestone reflects the company’s commitment to nurturing talent, noting that eight graduates have already chosen to continue their journey with KFC Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Yayasan JCorp CEO Puan Zaidatul Zurita Abdul Rahman said the ADi programme, now expanding into healthcare through KPJ Healthcare, represents “hope and opportunity” for the next generation.
