10 Things to Prepare Before Leaving for Malaysia

So you’ve made up your mind to study in Malaysia. Great choice! As an education hub and a stepping stone to internationally accepted qualifications, Malaysia has grown to be one of the most sort-after countries to pursue tertiary education. Here are 10 things every student should know before embarking on this journey.

1. Plan your finances in advance
Some colleges and universities require either a semester or a year’s tuition fee to be paid before being able to send you your student visa to enter the country. In addition to fees, it is also wise to budget for living expenses for a year and be sure you will have enough to cover expenses for the duration of your studies.

Seek advice from anyone who can help you with information on Malaysia, namely, the Malaysian embassy in your country.

2. Contact your college or university
Get in touch with your college’s International Office. They are there to assist you with programmes of study, tuition fees, student insurance, accommodation, etc. Some do provide airport pick-up service upon your arrival. And especially if it is your first time travelling to the country, it would be wise to have a friendly face to attend to your urgent needs.

3. Research the town you will be in
With the advent of internet, information can be retrieved quickly and effectively. Go online and research on the town and college you will be living and studying in. Take note of the location, façade and the sitemap of your campus. This would ease your first few days at the new environment.

4. Arrange for student visa
International students studying in Malaysia will have to apply for a student pass after your application to the college is approved. This pass is usually valid for a year and is renewable on a yearly basis. For more information on international student pass and visa please click here.

5. Wardrobe makeover
Malaysia is usually warm in the day and fairly cool in the nights and early mornings (average high 32°C and low 21°C) with humidity levels between 75% - 80% throughout the year. Locals prefer wearing light cotton made clothes. T-shirts, shirts, dresses, jeans, short pants, shoes and sandals are the norm. As the country is made up of majority Muslims, head-scarves for female are also common.

6. Research on Malaysian culture
Get online, type 'Malaysian culture’ and you will see a string of information on the twin towers, great food, shopping discounts, awesome weather, fun holiday destinations and more. You will also find, friendly people, the great Malaysian hospitality and rich culture. Dig a little deeper and you will find Malaysia is home to many people with different religions and cultures and live in harmony with one another. It will also help if you talk to friends or relatives who have lived in Malaysia.

Having a social life here is also important for a balanced education experience. If you have the time, participate in the college’s extra curricular activities or travel with friends to other parts of the country.
7. Money matters
Trading is done in Ringgit Malaysia (RM) so be sure to get your currency changed before arrival. You may carry travellers’ cheques to help pay for expenses in the first few weeks. You are encouraged to apply for a bank account so that your funds can be transferred when necessary.

8. Cross-cultural cuisine
Malaysia offers a variety of Western, Middle-eastern and Asian cuisine and food is readily available everywhere. Some local cuisine is available 24 hours. Cooking on your own could be a cheaper option too as supermarkets do offer regular shopping discounts. Popular food choices include ‘nasi lemak’ (coconut rice with chilly usually served with eggs or meat), noodles, rice dishes and fast food.

9. Prepare a checklist
It can be exciting times anticipating the move to another country. In all the excitement, important items could be forgotten and it is best to be organized about your belongings and needs. Write a checklist so you do not forget items you will need immediately.

10. Celebrate!!!
Lastly, sit back, relax and celebrate with friends and family your new adventure in life. This will be your best journey yet so look forward to it and let the excitement of broadening new horizons sink in.

For more information on university programmes, insurance, student activities, student visa/pass, and related events please visit http://www.kdu.edu.my/.

5 Things You Need to Know When Choosing a College

Here comes the tipping point. This point is to determine the step you take that could possibly and should change the rest of your life. This change, as regarded by some, can be brutal. For those who are contemplating a student life in a private college, the language change from Bahasa Malaysia to English could be a challenge. Others simply want to enjoy the borderless liberation of no uniform outfits, unique timetables, lavish cafeterias and modern libraries, computer labs and classrooms.

Peers and lifestyle may be factors that play a part in your education institution decision. And most often, these could be the wrong reasons for choosing a college. On the other hand, you are encouraged to keep an open mind and go for an education that fits your needs. We advise you to consider these factors the next time you visit a college or university.

1. Programme of Interest
You do better in a subject you have a passion for. That is the normal adage we find true in most of our students. A good start is by taking a Career Test. This may consist of a set of questions you have to answer about yourself which will then reveal your career interest. For those who do know what their interest is, they may opt for a specific programme like Diploma in Culinary Arts, Hospitality & Tourism, Business, Mass Communication or Information Technology. We also see a typical scene where students do not know what to do after SPM and we advise them to take up the Pre-University (Foundation or A-Level) or American Degree Program. These programmes do not limit the students’ interest but will allow them more time to decide on their next area of study.

2. University Recognition
Recognition and awards are important in determining the company you work in and the network you hold after graduation. It is what every employer will look for when interviewing and accepting graduates for jobs. A point to consider when speaking to an education counselor is the rank of the university and its international acceptance. The higher the rank of the institution, the more challenging the programme may be. And this high level of expectations and challenge is what many good employers are looking out for. There are many bogus colleges and universities offering affordable and easy-to-pass programmes that may not be recognized. Be wary and do a thorough search on the institution. If you smell a rat, run as far as you can.

3. Fees
Many colleges are now offering affordable twinning programmes (1+2, 2+1 or 3+0) with various partner universities in the UK, Australia, Switzerland, and many more. This means, you will be a graduate of an established international university by studying in Malaysia without having to set foot in those countries.

4. Scholarships and Loans
With the help of scholarships and loans, the financial burdens of higher education can be significantly reduced. Some colleges award tuition fee waivers to students who achieve as few as 5As and more in their SPM exams. Enquire with your education counselor on other scholarships that take into account not only your academic studies but also extra curricular activities, sports achievements, mid-term and trial results. Government loans such as PTPTN, education bank loans and withdrawals from parents’ EPF are also applicable.

5. Location
This is probably one aspect perceived less important for some - the location of the college or university. Your state of mind is important before starting a class. Therefore, make absolutely sure your travel to college or university is as hassle-free as possible. Your institution should be located near public transportation and it should have sufficient car park space. It should also be near eateries, convenience stores, clinics and other important student amenities. Otherwise, check with the college on their student accommodation options.

Most colleges will commence intake after the release of the SPM results in March. Before making a decision, you could first research (call or perform an online search) the programme and institution of your interest. Also, many institutions will participate in education fairs which are good places to get your questions answered and decisions firmed. Just remember to bring a pen and paper. Happy shopping!


By Serena Ng