Many SME owners tell me the same thing:
“We want to take interns, but cost always stop us.”

That is exactly why the LiKES Internship Placement Matching Grant exists. This programme, introduced by TalentCorp, helps SMEs and start-ups offer internship opportunities while receiving reimbursement support for internship allowances.

What Is the LiKES Grant?
The Internship Placement Matching Grant for SMEs and Start-ups (LiKES) supports companies that provide structured internship placements.

In short:
You provide real internship exposure.
You pay the intern allowance.
TalentCorp reimburses part of the cost, subject to approval and compliance.

Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?

Employer Criteria
Is an SME or start-up operating in Malaysia.
Is legally registered with the relevant authority (for example, SSM).
Can provide certified company registration documents when requested.
Pays internship allowance according to TalentCorp requirements.
Provides internship placement for a minimum of 10 weeks.
Has a structured internship programme, as verified by TalentCorp.
Can claim reimbursements at the specified rate for up to ten (10) interns per organisation.

Intern Criteria
Be a Malaysian citizen.
Be a full-time student (studying in Malaysia or overseas).
Receive internship placement from a LiKES-approved company.
Register on the MyNext Talent portal.
Complete the compulsory psychometric assessment before internship starts.

Claim Eligibility
Reimbursement claims must be submitted within three (3) months after the internship ends, based on the assessment year.
Late submissions may not be accepted.
RM300 per month, up to 12 months. For interns pursuing DLKM, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or a Professional Certificate. If the monthly allowance is RM600 or higher, the reimbursement is capped at RM3,600 per intern per year.
RM250 per month, up to 12 months. For interns pursuing SKM Level 1 to Level 3, Diploma, or DKM. If the monthly allowance is RM500, the reimbursement is capped at RM3,000 per intern per year.

Process Overview – How It Works
Step 1: Apply Online
The employer completes the LiKES application using the official Google Form.
Step 2: Company Verification
TalentCorp may request certified documents to confirm your company’s registration and eligibility.
Step 3: Intern Registration
Once internship placement is approved, the intern must:
Register on the MyNext Talent portal.
Complete the psychometric assessment.
Step 4: Claim Reimbursement
After the internship ends, employers submit the reimbursement claim within three (3) months.