Foreign students happy they can return to study

PETALING JAYA: Elated and excited, foreign students studying in Malaysian higher learning institutions can’t wait to return to their adopted home.

Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the students were allowed to return but must observe the standard operating procedure (SOP).

After being away for three months, Egyptian Mariam Hesham Zayed said she was thrilled as e-learning has been tough.

The Inti International College Subang interior design student said as the majority of her studies encompasses practicals and online learning, being far away from her friends and lecturers had not been very effective.

“In addition, there is a six-hour time difference between Malaysia and Egypt. So being far away from my friends and lecturers, physically and also in terms of time difference, has been a challenge,” said the 21-year-old.

Sara Shafique, 20, from Pakistan, felt relieved after hearing the news.

The uncertainty over when she would be able to return was worrying, said the Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) student.

“There were so many questions that went through my mind, especially about my visa renewal and internship process as Covid-19 hit in the mid of my academic year.

“Knowing now that I have a chance of returning to Malaysia to continue my studies is a big relief.

“I’m pleased that the Malaysian government is finally looking into the needs of international students,” said the computer science student specialising in data analytics.

Malaysian Association of Private Colleges and Universities president Datuk Dr Parmjit Singh said the association welcomed the announcement.

“We look forward to welcoming the returning students back to our campuses.

“As far as we know, the students are equally keen to be back in Malaysia and continue their studies in the country,” he said.