Study In Malaysia
25 Facts About Malaysia for International StudentS
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Study In Malaysia
Affordable & High-Quality Education IN MALAYSIA
Malaysia is one of the most popular destinations for international students, making it a significant topic when discussing facts about Malaysia. This country offers a unique blend of diverse culture, affordable education, and a vibrant economy. Whether you’re planning to visit or study there, it’s essential to know some key facts about this Southeast Asian country.
General Information
| Population | 34.24 million (2024 est.) |
|---|---|
| National Language | Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) |
| Capital City | Kuala Lumpur |
| Largest Cities | Kuala Lumpur, George Town (Penang), Johor Bahru |
| Currency | Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), 1 MYR = 63.50 Pakistani Rupee (2024) |
| Time Difference with Pakistan | Malaysia is 3 hours ahead of Pakistan |
| GDP Ranking | 37th largest economy globally (2024 est.) |
| Per Capita Income | $30,490 (Purchasing Power Parity – 2024 est.) |
Cultural and Religious Landscape
Top 3 Religions:
| Islam | Official religion, practiced by over 60% of the population |
|---|---|
| Buddhism | Practiced by a significant minority |
| Christianity | Also practiced by a minority |
Ethnic Composition:
| Ethnic Group | Malay (official ethnic group) |
|---|---|
| Chinese | Significant minority |
| Indian | Also part of the minority population |
| Indigenous and Other Ethnic Groups | Diverse indigenous and smaller ethnic groups |
Education in Malaysia
International Students: Malaysia is a hub for education and hosts over 200,000 international students from around the world (2024 est.). This is due to its affordable and high-quality education system, as well as its multicultural learning environment. These factors contribute to the numerous facts about Malaysia that make it an attractive destination for students.
Work Rule for International Students:
International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays longer than 7 days.
Wages for Students:
Students typically earn between 28 MYR to 40 MYR per hour, depending on the nature of the job and location.
Popular Fields of Study:
| Medicine | Engineering |
| Business and Management | Information Technology |
These fields are popular among international students, further enriching the diverse academic landscape. Understanding these facts about Malaysia can help prospective students make informed decisions about their educational journey.
Economic Overview
Malaysia has one of the most rapidly growing economies in Southeast Asia. It boasts a dynamic economy with a strong presence in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and services.
| Economy | 37th largest economy globally (2024 est.) |
| Key Industries | Electronics, oil and gas, palm oil, automotive |
| Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) | Malaysia attracts significant FDI, particularly in manufacturing and service sectors. |
Per Capita Income:
$30,490 PPP (Purchasing Power Parity) – indicating the relatively high standard of living.
Cost of Living:
Malaysia is an affordable country to live in, especially for international students. On average, monthly living expenses (excluding tuition) range from $400 – $800 USD.
Immigration and Expat Population
Malaysia has a significant expat community and an immigrant population due to its growing economy and job opportunities.
- Immigrant Population: Over 3.6 million (2024 est.), many of whom come from neighboring Southeast Asian countries, as well as South Asia and the Middle East.
Cities in Malaysia
Here are some details about the largest cities in Malaysia, where most students choose to live and study:
Kuala Lumpur
- Population: 1.8 million
- The capital and largest city, Kuala Lumpur, is a bustling metropolis known for its modern skyline, iconic Petronas Towers, and vibrant street markets. It’s also home to top universities like University of Malaya (UM) and Monash University Malaysia.
George Town (Penang)
- Population: 740,000
- Known for its colonial architecture, George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major hub for education and culture. Penang is also famous for its tech industry and medical education.
Johor Bahru
- Population: 910,000
- Located near Singapore, Johor Bahru is an industrial city with several universities and a growing expat population. It’s popular for both work and education.
Cost of Living in Malaysia
Here’s a breakdown of typical costs international students may incur while living in Malaysia:
Accommodation:
| Accommodation Type | Cost (USD per month) |
|---|---|
| Shared apartment | $100 – $300 USD |
| University dormitory | $50 – $200 USD |
| Private apartment | $250 – $600 USD |
Food:
| Expense Type | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Meals at local restaurants | $1.50 – $5 USD per meal |
| Groceries | $150 – $300 USD per month |
Transportation:
| Transportation Type | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Monthly public transport pass | $20 – $30 USD |
| Ride-sharing services (e.g., Grab) | Affordable, starting at $1 USD for short rides |
Healthcare in Malaysia
Malaysia provides excellent healthcare services, both in the public and private sectors. International students are required to have health insurance during their stay.
- Public Healthcare: Affordable and available, but international students generally opt for private healthcare for quicker services.
- Private Healthcare: Highly regarded for its modern facilities, with costs significantly lower than Western countries.
Tourism and Leisure in Malaysia
While studying in Malaysia, students can explore the country’s vast array of attractions:
- Langkawi: An archipelago known for its stunning beaches, rainforests, and duty-free shopping.
- Cameron Highlands: Famous for its tea plantations and cool climate.
- Borneo: Adventure lovers can explore Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak, and the diverse wildlife.
Conclusion
Studying in Malaysia offers a unique combination of quality education, affordability, and cultural diversity. With its excellent educational institutions, affordable cost of living, and vibrant lifestyle, Malaysia stands out as an ideal destination for international students. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, the opportunities in Malaysia are extensive and cater to a wide range of academic and professional interests.
By understanding the key facts about Malaysia—including its rich culture, growing economy, and supportive education system—you’ll be better prepared for your study abroad experience. These facts about Malaysia provide valuable insights into why it continues to attract students from around the world, making it a top choice for higher education.
