Make the right choice
AS of April, there are over 140 international schools in Malaysia. This number has been increasing steadily over the last few years due to several factors.
Firstly, the enrolment quota of local children in international schools was lifted by the Malaysian government in 2012, opening up a new market for international schools, leading to their mushrooming all over the country. Next, the demand for international schools has grown, as parents are now more aware of alternative education options around them.
There are many types of international schools in Malaysia such as British boarding schools and English-medium private schools offering international curricula.
Each is unique and different in terms of curricula offered, fees, location, teaching staff and learning environment. Therefore, it is important for parents to familiarise themselves with an international school education as a whole before deciding on the right school for their children.
Organised by Mint Communications, the Private and International School Fairs have helped many Malaysian and expatriate parents find the right international school for their children.
A series of successful fairs has taken place in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak. The fair also has a presence in Singapore. The increasing interest from visitors and exhibitors has contributed to the success of the fair over the years.
According to Mint Communications co-founder and director Nickie Yew, “The Private and International School Fair in Kuala Lumpur is our biggest event and we are excited to bring it back for the 11th time. We expect over 15,000 visitors to attend the upcoming fair.”
Some exhibitors at the upcoming fair include Dwi Emas International School, GEMS International School, HELP International School, Kingsgate International School, Kingsley International School, Rafflesia International and Private Schools, Taylor’s International School and Westlake International School. Preschools, learning centres, special educational needs centres and pre-university providers will also be exhibiting at the fair, which will be held on June 23 and 24 at the Mid Valley Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur.
Opening hours are from 11am to 7pm and admission is free.
The upcoming fair will also feature the inaugural PISF Poetry Slam 2018, a competition where participants perform original poems in front of a live audience. Visitors have a chance to watch students aged nine to 14 from international schools, private schools and government schools compete to win attractive cash prizes. In addition, there will be talks by experts on international education where a variety of international school-related topics will be discussed.
At the fair, visitors will be able to purchase the 2018/2019 edition of the Education
Destination Malaysia guidebook at a discounted price. The guidebook is an in-depth and comprehensive guide to international education in Malaysia. It contains detailed information on schools, useful articles and insightful advice to help parents decide on an international school for their children.
■ Register online at www.pisf.asia to receive updates about the event through e-mail.