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Malaysia: No Longer a Preferred Destination for Higher Education

As a current PhD student, I feel compelled to share my experiences and concerns about studying in Malaysia, which I can no longer recommend to prospective students. Here are some of the critical issues I’ve encountered:

Visa and Immigration Issues: The immigration department grants visas for only one year. When you need an extension, it takes a minimum of 8 weeks to renew, forcing students to remain in Kuala Lumpur unnecessarily, incurring additional housing and living expenses.

Rising Education Costs: The cost of education in Malaysia is continually increasing, making it less affordable for international students.

Discrimination: There is a significant degree of discrimination based on nationality, affecting the overall experience and opportunities for international students.

Limited Scholarships: Opportunities for scholarships at the PhD level are either very limited or non-existent, adding to the financial burden on students.

Expensive Housing: Few universities provide on-campus housing, and those that do often charge exorbitant prices, making it difficult for students to find affordable accommodation.

Slow Processes: Both EMGS and the immigration processes are notoriously slow and time-consuming, adding unnecessary stress and delays to students’ academic journeys.

Due to these challenges, I will not recommend Malaysia as a study destination. Once I complete my PhD, I will not advise others to pursue their education here based on my experiences.