Malaysia as study abroad destination

Study in Malaysia:
Malaysia ranks eleventh in the world in hosting international students and is the top destination among Asian nations. Located around South China Sea, it comprises of two regions namely peninsular Malaysia and the island of Borneo comprising of Sabah and Sarawak regions which are separated by China Sea. Since, it is located near equator, Malaysia experiences a tropical climate which is high in humidity. Malaysia is a diverse country and is home to various ethnic groups, races and religions.

Benefits of studying in Malaysia:
• Known as one of the safest, most tolerant, easiest to manage countries in Asia
• Beautiful, diverse scenery, from forested mountains to white sand beaches
• Surprisingly low cost of living, affordable education, and good quality of life
• Excellent, internationally Recognized education system and qualifications
• Multicultural, vibrant environment for international students from more than 150 countries

Academic Culture in Malaysia:
There are two types of tertiary education in Malaysia: government-funded and private higher educational institutes. There are also many prestigious British and international branch campuses operating in Malaysia with affordable fee options. English is the dominant language of instruction. Campuses of Monash University, Swinburne University of Technology, Curtin University of Technology, University of Nottingham, Raffles Design Institute and SAE are some of the examples. These institutions usually follow the high quality standards and practices of the home country.Malaysian colleges and universities offer a wide variety of courses. Undergraduate and postgraduate programs are offered in various fields, including pharmacy, medicine, engineering, law, business, economics, commerce, information technology and education.Outside the classroom, there are lots of activities you can explore. You can either visit the islands of Penang, Langkawi, Pangkor and Tioman and experience a nice beach holiday, or have a look at the colourful stages of Malay history in Penang. You can also head down to the famous Batu caves, a 400-million-year-old limestone hill with a series of awe-inspiring caves and cave temples.

Accommodation:
When it comes to student accommodation, university accommodation and private accommodation are the two main options available to international students in Malaysia. University accommodation mainly consists of student hostels inside or near the campus. Private accommodation includes home stays and private rented properties are other major options available to international students. Affordable cost of accommodation is a major attraction in Malaysia. Student accommodations are well furnished and contain all basic amenities. 

Living in Malaysia:
Though Malaysia is a multi-cultural and tolerant society but one important aspect is that it is an Islamic country and governed by local Shari’a law. It is important to be respectful of this. Under this law homosexual acts are illegal and there are severe penalties for drug possession. If students are from western countries and considering studying in Malaysia it is worth noting these different values. 
A tropical nation in the heart of the Southeast Asia, Malaysia is associated with the cultural and culinary vibrancy of the region. Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes are easily and cheaply available at most restaurants and hawker stalls, whilst fast-food restaurants and western food are easily found too. In addition, various other delectable cuisines are also available, such as Middle Eastern and Thai food. Malaysia is popularly known as Asia’s food paradise.

Working in Malaysia:
International students can work part-time in Malaysia under strict guidelines whereby they can work only during semester breaks for a maximum of 20 hours a week. Only certain workplaces are permitted and all applications to work must be approved through Malaysian Immigration.