It takes much longer for Hoya kerrii to grow roots when there is no vine attached to it. Some do say they are able to root just the leaves, but I have never been able to do so.
As already mentioned, Hoyas are epiphytic, so I am thinking it is being rotted from being buried in soil. If it were mine, I would see first the condition below, if it is still staying firm, then try to repot instead using orchid bark mix, or clay rocks...but do not use soil for this one.