Broaden perspective
DESPITE the many differences between Malaysia and Maldives, international student Shaifa Adam, 21, revealed that one of the things she likes about the former is its diversity in terms of culture, ethnicity and religion.
Shaifa, who is in the second-year Economics and Management degree programme at INTI @ the University of Wollongong, said: “Malaysia provides quality education and, most importantly, it is not as expensive compared to some Western countries.”
International student Caelie Barnstead, 18, in her second year of microbiology studies at University of Malaya (UM), said Malaysia is a good destination to study three different cultures in one country.
“Kuala Lumpur is a great city to explore and most people speak English,” said Barnstead.
She may be the only foreign student in her programme but her welfare is well taken care of by the university.
“International students attend a Bahasa Malaysia course and an introduction to Malaysia session.”
Jordanian Awos Jodeh, 19, wanted to step out of his comfort zone and chose Malaysia for its reputation as an education hub with a melting pot of cultures thrown in.
The second-year mechanical engineering undergraduate has had a smooth transition so far. “The UM International Students Association makes us feel at home. Language is not a barrier — the Malay language is hard to master but very easy to learn.”
Korean Henri Seo Hun Min, 22, admitted he was a bit reserved and shy when he first came to Malaysia but he has gained confidence after joining clubs and activities on campus.
The third-year business administration student at the University of Hertfordshire @INTI said he always challenges himself to learn new things.
Currently the vice-president of INTI International Student Club, Seo said he pursued the Laurette English Programme to improve his communication skills.
“I try to participate in the club activities to get to know other cultures and the community. These activities provide a platform to broaden my perspective of life.”