Talent & Tech Asia Summit 2024
human resources online

HRUnplugged: How HR leaders can build an inner circle for support

Sulaiman Ab Hamid, General Manager, Human Resources Division, KLCC Property Holdings, brings out the need for HR leaders to get involved in collaborative projects across the organisation.

Q Showcasing ROI in HR: are you for or against it? In what way do you measure its value?

I was an accounting graduate and most of my past work experience was really in the accounting and finance area. With that kind of background, obviously, I will definitely be into showcasing return on investment (ROI). To me, ROI is about creating value-add or returns to the organisation against the initial investment; that is producing higher or better productivity against the initial costs incurred per employee.

Q In today’s rapidly changing times, what happens to companies who can’t or won’t go digital?

Those who won’t go digital will definitely either be left behind from their digitally savvy competitors or become irrelevant to the industry. “Digital” is the culture of doing business nowadays and moving forward.

Q Do you think it’s possible for companies to fully adopt a shorter work week? Why or why not?

It is definitely possible. It is about the trust that management places on the employees that the deliverables are produced as promised without compromising on the quality of the product or services. It is about focused execution and results that matter. In fact, I have experienced a shorter work week concept once when I was working in the US.

Q How do you build an inner circle as a HR leader – people in the organisation you can count on for advice and mentorship?

I make an effort to understand each leader’s character, strengths and weaknesses. I have regular engagements with them and get involved in collaborative work which gives me the opportunity to work with them. Once I’ve realised their expertise, then, from time to time, I will definitely ask for their opinion, input or even ideas on the subject matter discussed.
It is about the trust that management places on the employees that the deliverables are produced as promised without compromising on the quality of the product or services.
- Sulaiman on the possibility of shorter work weeks

Q What is your favourite book, and why?

In general, any book that relates to health and fitness. I have always had an extra passion for fitness which led me to become a certified personal trainer when I was in the US. What I realised is that these kinds of books complement my professional world, even as they help me in building myself physically, thus building a higher confidence level for myself.

I apply most of the knowledge to myself and it does feel good when I see the results and when others notice them. My reading in this area definitely helps me to manage my stress levels at work a lot.


Vital stats: Sulaiman Ab Hamid has spent much of his career in the accounting line, having worked across North America, the Middle East and Asia for sectors such as insurance and oil and gas.

He is currently in property development and management. He then made his way into strategy and performance, and in the past five years, has found his passion for HR, as a non-traditional HR leader who emphasises the importance of numbers.

When not at work, he is a self-professed “gym rat”.


This interview is part of our CHRO 4.0 special edition where we we introduce you to Human Resources’ Advisory Panel 2019, and pick their brains on the burning questions the function is facing.

Read more here: CHRO 4.0: Decoding the HR skills of the future


Photo / provided

Follow us on Telegram and on Instagram @humanresourcesonline for all the latest HR and manpower news from around the region!

Free newsletter

Get the daily lowdown on Asia's top Human Resources stories.

We break down the big and messy topics of the day so you're updated on the most important developments in Asia's Human Resources development – for free.

subscribe now open in new window