Written by: Marwa Rufaida (11A SMA)
Universities in Indonesia are as good as in Malaysia in terms of providing good education, however there are many Indonesians who choose to continue their degree in Malaysia. So why does this happen?
Many universities in Malaysia offer programs in both Bahasa Melayu and English, with significant courses taught in English like in science and technology fields. Their curriculum also focuses on international standards which makes them attractive to students seeking international opportunities or a globally competitive education. Malaysia offers both state and private universities as varieties for Indonesian students to choose from. Universities in Malaysia are also recognized globally, for instance, University Malaya (UM), ranked 60th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, is known for its research output, while Taylor’s University, ranked 251st, excels in its private university offerings.
Malaysia’s universities offer many programs for international students ranging from technologies, STEM, to social science. These universities also offer a friendly and welcoming environment for international students, characterized by competitive tuition fees, cultural inclusivity, and strong connections to private sectors that help facilitate networking opportunities and internships.
As there are a lot of universities in Malaysia, a prospective Indonesian student should be equipped with knowledge to choose the best university to accommodate their interest. For Indonesian students aiming to study in Malaysia, choosing the right university requires careful planning. Here are key factors to consider in finding the right university. First, based on the major you want. Second, compare the facilities they provide, among others are dormitory, library, and its living environment. Third, find universities that accept international students as it can benefit in expanding your networking. Finally, search for university offering internship program for international students in private companies recognized globally.
Finding universities based on the major you want is important, as it means the university you will be enrolling in is good at the subjects you are interested in. It’s recommended to steer clear of choosing universities based on their popularity or global ranking. It is also advisable to talk to somebody who has attended the university, majoring in the same subject you’re interested in. Sometimes, talking to an education consultant to ensure that you are making the right choice of the major you choose, can also help you plan your future.
For foreign students from Indonesia, finding a university in Malaysia that provides a dormitory would be an ideal condition. Living in a dormitory would be convenient and could reduce living expenses. These accommodations are often closer to campus, saving time and money on transportation. Additionally, they help international students adapt to the new environment by fostering a sense of community. Most universities in Malaysia provide dormitories with competitive prices and different facilities. Again, you have to talk to somebody who is a student in the university that you want to enroll in to give you a clear insight.
In addition, finding a university that accepts mixed students would be a good choice as it could help you build a wider network. Enrolling in a university with diverse international students offers networking opportunities that can be invaluable for career prospects after graduation. It can also train you to many new challenges as they come from different countries and cultures. Interaction with international students will give you more exposure and know-how on what is going on outside your home country.
Nowadays, many Malaysian universities are established by or collaborated with private companies. These companies will fund the technology provided to students for research purposes, which will then be utilized by the company. They also provide fund to establish laboratory with similar prototype at the university that can be used by the students to get accustomed with the technology used for manufacturing purposes in the company. This could give the students a chance to experience a real-working environment. Also, the companies are collaborating with the university for internships, choosing such universities could really be beneficial for Indonesian students to enhance their learning and practical experiences.
Mainly, universities in Malaysia are categorized as state universities and private universities. State universities, also known as public universities, are universities that are subsidized by the government. While, private universities rely on student fee and endowment to fund their academic programs. As for the programs they offer, they are equally remarkable, many universities in Malaysia, both state and private, offer high-quality programs. State universities in Malaysia are highly regarded and mostly enrolled by locals rather than international, while private universities often provide specialized courses in collaboration with international partners.
Personally, I would like to enroll in University Malaya. Not only ranked first in Malaysia, it is also the best university for Biochemistry in Malaysia (according to EduRank 2024), as it is the major I’m aiming for. I believe that every disease has a cause, and understanding that cause can lead to the development of new medicines to cure illnesses. By studying the molecular and biochemical processes behind diseases, I hope to contribute to the discovery and creation of innovative treatments that improve lives.
In conclusion, choosing a university abroad is a major decision that requires thorough research and self-reflection. By understanding your priorities and gathering information from reliable sources, you can find a university that aligns with your academic goals and personal preferences. Remember to stay adaptable and embrace the new experiences that come with studying in Malaysia.
And of course, to have the courage to take new steps and think of this as one of the many stepping stones to reach your goals. Make friends with the locals and other international students too, not only socialize with the Indonesian students as it can widen your networking. Uphold your identity while also being mindful and sociable!