Living in Malaysia
- Details
- Overview to Malaysia

Overview to Malaysia
Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socialising. As a people, Malaysians are very laid back, warm and friendly.
Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts to the country, 11 states in the peninsula of Malaysia and two states on the northern part of Borneo. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.
One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs.
For the perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.
Advantages of Studying in Malaysia
- High quality of education of international standard, regulated by the Ministry of Education;
- Twinning programmes offer internatioanal students the best routes to top notch qualifications from the UK, France and other countries for higher studies;
- Relatively affordable fees of lower costs of living;
- English is widely used as the medium of intructions preparing graduates for global market;
- Institutions offer friendly environment and world-class facilities;
- Simple immigration procedures for international students;
- Malaysia is a nation which comprise of people from diverse ethnic background living in harmony, offers international students a unique learning and cultural experience;
- Diversity in food, festivals, customs, races and languages;
- Fast Facts about Malaysia
Fast Facts About Malaysia
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The Federation of Malaysia comprises of Peninsular Malaysia, and the states of Sabah & Sarawak on the island of Borneo. |
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Geographic Location
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Situated between 2' and 7' to the North of the Equator line, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. In the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia lies Thailand, and in the south, neighbouring Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also share borders with Brunei.
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Area
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329,758 square km
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Population
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27.17 million
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Capital City
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Kuala Lumpur
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People
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Malays comprise 57% of the population, while the Chinese, Indian and Bumiputeras and other races make up the rest of the country's population.
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Language
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(Bahasa Melayu) Malay is the national language in use, but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also converse in the various languages and dialects.
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Religion
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Islam is the official religion of the country, but other religions are widely practiced.
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Government
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Malaysia follows the bicameral legislative system, adopting a democratic parliamentry. The head of the country is the King or the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position which is changed every five years among the Malay Sultanates. The head of government is the Prime Minister.
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Weather
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The country experiences tropical weather year-round. Temperatures are from 21'C (70'F) to 32'C (90'F). Higher elevations are much colder with temperatures between 15'C (59'F) to 25'C (77'F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500 mm.
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Culture & Heritage : People
Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other ethnic groups have lived together in Malaysia for generations. All these cultures have influenced each other, creating a truly Malaysian culture.
The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In Sabah and Sarawak, there are a myriad of indigenous ethnic groups with their own unique culture and heritage.
MALAY
Today, the Malays, Malaysia's largest ethnic group, make up more than 50% of the population. In Malaysia, the term Malay refers to a person who practices Islam and Malay traditions, speaks the Malay language and whose ancestors are Malays. Their conversion to Islam from Hinduism and Theravada Buddhism began in the 1400s, largely influenced by the decision of the royal court of Melaka. The Malays are known for their gentle mannerisms and rich arts heritage.
CHINESE
The second largest ethnic group, the Malaysian Chinese form about 25% of the population. Mostly descendants of Chinese immigrants during the 19th century, the Chinese are known for their diligence and keen business sense. The three sub-groups who speak a different dialect of the Chinese language are the Hokkien who live predominantly on the northern island of Penang; the Cantonese who live predominantly in the capital city Kuala Lumpur; and the Mandarin-speaking group who live predominantly in the southern state of Johor.
INDIAN
The smallest of three main ethnic groups, the Malaysian Indians form about 10% of the population. Most are descendants of Tamil-speaking South Indian immigrants who came to the country during the British colonial rule. Lured by the prospect of breaking out of the Indian caste system, they came to Malaysia to build a better life. Predominantly Hindus, they brought with them their colourful culture such as ornate temples, spicy cuisine and exquisite sarees.
Essentials: Passport / Visa
Visitors to Malaysia must hold a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended visiting period. Most nationalities do not require visas for social or business visits. For further information, please contact the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission or Tourism Malaysia office.
Visit the Malaysian Immigration Department's website Or Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia website. Set in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is easily accessible from most parts of the world by air, surface and sea links. Over 45 international airlines fly into the country while national carrier Malaysia Airlines has a global network that spans six continents and a national network that covers more than 36 local destinations. AirAsia, Malaysia's budget airline also services certain domestic and regional routes.
Moving Around:
please logon to the RapidKL Official Website
- Cost of Studying in Malaysia
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Estimated Cost per year (Approximate Cost)
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Malaysia 1
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Singapore 2
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Australia 3
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United Kingdom 4
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United States 5
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Degree in Arts, Business or Economics
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RM20,000 — RM23,000
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S$30,030 — S$30,230
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AUD$10,000 — AUD$13,500
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£8000 — £9000
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USD$22,000 — USD$32,000
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Living Expenses
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RM15,000
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S16,500
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AUD$18,000
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£8800
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USD$12,000
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RM35,000 — RM38,000
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S$46,530 — S$53,930
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AUD$28,000 — AUD$31,500
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£16,800 — £23,800
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USD$34,000 — USD$44,000
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(in USD equivalent)
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USD$11,700 — USD$12,700
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USD$36,025 — USD$41,750
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USD$28,250 — USD$31,780
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USD$25,990 — USD$36,800
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USD$34,000 — USD$44,000
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Source:
- http://www.mohe.gov.my/educationmsia/education.php?article=study
- http://www.singaporeedu.gov.sg/htm/liv/liv01.htm
- http://studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/en/StudyCosts/StudyCosts.htm
- http://www.infozee.com/uk/expenses.htm
- http://www.collegesintheusa.com/Tuition-Fees-For-Undergraduate-International-Students.cfm