About Cornell Leadership Academy
A structured talent programme bridging training and employment.
What This Is
The Cornell Leadership Academy is a structured talent programme designed to bridge the gap between training and employment.
Built in collaboration with industry partners, the Academy focuses on developing job-ready individuals through real-world exposure and connecting organisations with candidates aligned to operational needs.
Real-world training environment within live operations
Built in collaboration with industry partners
Designed to develop job-ready individuals
Connects talent with employers based on operational needs
Vision, Mission & Goal
Vision
To develop the next generation of industry professionals through real-world experience, and to build a sustainable talent pipeline for the industry.
Mission
Bridge the gap between education and employment through structured, practical training
Develop individuals who are ready to contribute from day one
Support organisations in building a consistent and scalable pipeline of talent
Align training with real operational and industry needs
Goal
Provide students with relevant real-world work experience
Focus on Food & Beverage, Retail, Business Management, and Entrepreneurship
Develop practical skills aligned with industry needs
Integrate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles
Complement academic learning with hands-on exposure
Built by Industry & Development Professionals
The Cornell Leadership Academy is led by a team with experience across real estate development and operations.
Tan Sri Dr. Madinah Mohamed
Chairman
Tan Sri Dr. Madinah Mohamed brings extensive leadership experience in Malaysia's public sector, including senior roles in national audit and government administration.
Darren Yang
Managing Director
As the founder and Managing Director, Darren Yang leads the Academy's vision and direction, driving industry partnerships and long-term growth strategies.
Dr. Vikneswaran Nair
Chief Operating Officer
A seasoned academic and sustainability expert, Dr. Vik oversees day-to-day operations, academic coordination, and stakeholder engagement across all training hubs.
Chew Kar Lock, Noams
Manager
Kar Lock oversees the operations of the Academy, manage staff, coordinate programs and ensure quality learning delivery to support student success and organizational growth.
Norbazilah Binti Abdul Mutalib
Administrative Executive
Norbazilah manages administrative functions and trainee coordination, ensuring smooth operations and strong support for both staff and students.
Industry & Academic Partners
The Cornell Leadership Academy works in collaboration with industry and academic partners to deliver a programme that is both practical and relevant.
King's Park Genting Highlands
A large-scale integrated commercial and lifestyle development providing a live environment for training.
Savills
A global real estate services company supporting the industry through property advisory, valuation, consultancy and market expertise.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
A leading academic institution supporting the programme through collaboration in education and talent development.
Rotol Group
A specialist building solutions company with expertise in architectural coatings, façade works, maintenance and building restoration.
Yuk Tung Design and Build
A construction and design-build company supporting development projects through building works, site execution and project delivery expertise.
Crowne Plaza KLCC
A premium hotel in Kuala Lumpur City Centre providing hospitality exposure across accommodation, guest services, dining and business facilities.
HRD Corp
A national human capital development agency supporting Malaysian employers and workers through training, upskilling, workforce development and talent enhancement programmes.
Genting Highland City Centre
A highland tourism and lifestyle destination offering exposure to hospitality, attractions, retail, entertainment and destination-based experiences.
Our Alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Cornell Leadership Academy aligns with selected Sustainable Development Goals through education, employability, and industry collaboration.
No Poverty
Quality Education
Decent Work and
Economic Growth
