Benefits and Considerations
Discover the advantages of studying in Malaysia and important considerations.
Benefits and Considerations of Studying in Malaysia
Malaysia has been attracting growing attention for its warm climate, safety, and multicultural society.
With English-medium education available at relatively affordable costs, the number of international students from Japan has been increasing year by year.
Here, we introduce the main “benefits” and “considerations” of studying in Malaysia.
Benefits of Studying in Malaysia
1. Natural Language Development in a Multilingual Environment
In Malaysia, English, Chinese, and Malay are used in everyday life.
Living in a multilingual environment allows students to naturally become accustomed to languages, facilitating smooth acquisition of English and Chinese.
Students develop practical communication skills with minimal resistance to learning new languages.
2. Developing International Awareness Through Cross-Cultural Exchange
Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multicultural nation.
In school, classmates come from different countries, religions, and cultural backgrounds, making cross-cultural interaction a daily occurrence.
Exposure to diverse values fosters flexible thinking and an international perspective.
3. A Valuable Opportunity for Self-Reflection
Living abroad provides an opportunity to reconsider what is taken for granted in Japan.
By objectively understanding Japan’s strengths and challenges, and rediscovering one’s own roots and values, students experience significant personal growth.
4. Language Skills That Benefit Future Careers
English and Chinese skills become significant advantages for future academic pursuits and job hunting.
Additionally, developing the communication abilities needed in a global society expands future career options.
Considerations for Studying in Malaysia
1. Cultural Gaps with Japanese Culture
In Malaysia, there are situations where the meticulous attention to detail and hierarchical etiquette common in Japan are less emphasized.
As a result, students may have fewer opportunities to practice Japanese manners and honorific language, potentially feeling a cultural gap upon returning to Japan.
2. A Less Competitive Environment
Malaysian schools tend to be less competitive compared to Japan.
Consequently, it may be harder to develop academic or athletic “ambition” and “competitive spirit,” which could pose challenges when pursuing education or employment in Japan.
3. Differences in Curriculum Content
While Malaysian curricula are international in scope, they differ from Japanese educational content.
Particularly in mathematics and Japan-specific subjects, students may experience gaps upon returning.
If planning to take university entrance exams in Japan, supplementary study and self-directed learning will be necessary.
4. Time Needed to Readjust After Returning
While becoming accustomed to life in a different culture, some people experience “reverse culture shock” when returning to Japan.
It may take some time to readjust to Japanese lifestyle habits, rules, and school etiquette.
5. Fewer Extracurricular Activities
Malaysian schools offer CCA (Co-curricular Activities) as after-school club activities, but they are generally not as active as Japanese club activities (bukatsu).
As a result, opportunities to develop teamwork, perseverance, and consistency may be reduced.
Summary
Studying in Malaysia is an excellent opportunity to develop language skills and international awareness.
At the same time, it is important to understand the differences in education and culture compared to Japan and to prepare thoroughly.
The experience of living in a different culture will surely become a valuable asset for your child’s future.