Not all degrees hold the same weight, especially when it comes to job-hunting abroad.
For many students in Southeast Asia, recognition and affordability are becoming key factors in choosing where to study.
This is why Malaysian universities are gaining serious traction, not just among locals but also among students from neighbouring countries like Indonesia.
Over the years, Malaysia has built a strong reputation as a regional education hub. According to the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, the country is home to over 100 higher education institutions, including several ranked in the QS World University Rankings.
Top local universities such as Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) are consistently recognised for their research and teaching quality.
What’s really drawing international attention is Malaysia’s network of international branch campuses.
Prestigious institutions like Monash University (Australia), University of Nottingham (UK), Heriot-Watt University (UK), Curtin University (Australia), and University of Southampton (UK) operate campuses in Malaysia, offering the same qualifications as their home countries at a fraction of the cost.
This discussion recently surfaced on social media after an Indonesian user on X (formerly Twitter) recommended Malaysia as a smart option for higher education.
For those planning to pursue their studies at university level, it’s better to go to a campus in Malaysia. The cost is more affordable. The degrees are recognised in Commonwealth countries,” the netizen wrote.
Their post resonated with many Indonesians who agreed that Malaysia offers a solid mix of quality, affordability, and international recognition.
In fact, Malaysia is part of the Commonwealth of Nations, meaning that degrees from Malaysian universities are often recognised across other Commonwealth countries. This makes it easier for graduates to pursue further studies or employment opportunities abroad.
Others joined the conversation by sharing their own experiences or those of their relatives who studied in Malaysia.
Many noted that international students tend to adapt quickly thanks to Malaysia’s multicultural environment, the use of English as a medium of instruction in many universities, and similarities in lifestyle and food.
Some even compared this to studying in their home country, where degrees may not always be recognised internationally.
Several users pointed out that despite obtaining qualifications locally, their family members faced challenges in securing jobs at top companies or applying to institutions abroad. This was not as common for Malaysian university graduates.
As a result, many Indonesians are now seriously considering Malaysia for their tertiary education. Some are actively exploring scholarship and sponsorship opportunities through programmes offered by both public and private Malaysian institutions.
Malaysia currently hosts over 130,000 international students from more than 130 countries, according to Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).
With a government push to make Malaysia one of the top international study destinations by 2025, it is no surprise that more and more regional students are starting to see the country as a smart and strategic choice.
