Education Malaysia Global Services | 8 Reasons Why International Students Are Shifting To Study Abroad In Malaysia
Malaysia has long been a popular choice for international students to pursue their studies. In fact, Malaysian higher education institutions were ranked among the top 150 universities globally in the recent QS World University Rankings 2026. As a progressive country with a vibrant community and friendly people from diverse backgrounds, Malaysia has so much to offer. Let’s explore the reasons why Malaysia is fast rising as a top study destination for students from around the world.
01| WIDELY-RECOGNISED PROGRAMMES
Malaysia offers qualifications that are well-recognised globally. In addition, Malaysian higher education institutions continue to make significant progress in international rankings, with a total of 32 institutions listed in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Universiti Malaya (UM), the best public university in Malaysia, has risen by two spots compared to last year’s ranking.
02| MODERN NATION
Malaysia is a modern and progressive country. Malaysia’s modern and convenient transportation system connects every part of the city, through Klang Valley LRT, MRT, Monorail, and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Transit as well as other public transport is well connected nationwide. Malaysia is also a contemporary Muslim-friendly country with easy access to Halal food, modern life and facilities.
03| ENGLISH IS WIDELY SPOKEN
English is widely spoken and used in Malaysia. As one of the main requirements for students’ admission to apply for higher education institutions, Malaysia has administered its own English proficiency test, the Malaysian University English Test (MUET). Whether you are navigating through the streets of the capital city Kuala Lumpur or exploring the serenity in the rural areas, you can interact with the locals or your international friends using English.
04| MULTICULTURAL
Malaysia is known for its friendly people and vibrant mix of cultures, making it a true melting pot of Asia. This rich diversity means the country celebrates hundreds of cultural festivals and is renowned as a food haven with a wide variety of unique delicacies. As a result, international students gain more than just academic knowledge. They develop a global perspective and learn beyond the classroom, gaining valuable experience in working, interacting and living with people from different cultural backgrounds.
05| REASONABLE COST
Malaysia offers affordability in many areas, starting from food, travelling, transportation as well as tuition fees. In fact, Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is one of the top 10 Best Student Cities in Asia, according to the QS Best Student Cities 2025. Based on the Numbeo’s Cost-of-Living Index 2024, Malaysia is among the countries with low Cost-of-Living index globally.
06| PEACEFUL AND FRIENDLY NATION
Apart from Malaysians known to be friendly, Malaysia also has safe, peaceful, and vibrant communities. Malaysia is currently ranked 13th in the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) report, providing you with a safe and secure environment for your study journey. Enjoy a peaceful day and night in the countryside or a safe adventure in city life throughout your study journey.
07| DYNAMIC LIFESTYLE
Many international students choose to study in Malaysia to broaden their horizons and pursue personal growth. Here, students can enjoy a dynamic lifestyle, with access to exciting activities, beautiful destinations, and a harmonious multicultural society. Malaysia’s landscape is diverse, from pristine beaches along the coastline to rainforests rich in biodiversity that offer endless adventures. Students can explore picturesque islands with colourful coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and rare underwater species. For those who love the mountains, Malaysia is also home to breathtaking highlands such as Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic peaks.
08| STRATEGIC LOCATION
The best part is that Malaysia is located in a strategic location at the heart of Asia, making travel to neighbouring tourist destinations both easy and affordable. During semester breaks, students can explore Malaysia or travel internationally with convenience. With the world-class Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and a wide network of Malaysia-owned carriers, major cities across Asia are just a short and budget-friendly flight away.
Broaden your international exposure, meet new friends, and gain an internationally-recognised education here in Malaysia. Discover so much more as you #StudyinMalaysia.
For more information on Study in Malaysia, visit educationmalaysia.gov.my.
