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Showing posts with label Kuala Lumpur. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kuala Lumpur. Show all posts

Sunday, September 7, 2025

‘Malaysian edu can do better’

 

This visual is human-created, AI-aided

Positioning Malaysia as a hub of excellence in both innovation-driven and non-science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields is crucial to maintaining Kuala Lumpur’s edge as a global student city, industry players say.

While placing 12th in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities Rankings – the country’s best showing since participating in 2016 – is cause for celebration, Malaysia has the potential to do even better.

Looking ahead, Malaysian Association of Private Colleges and Universities (Mapcu) president Datuk Parmjit Singh said institutions should shift away from generic qualifications towards growth verticals such as artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, data science, analytics, cybersecurity and integrated circuit design.

Parmjit

National Association of Private Educational Institutions (Napei) president Datuk Lau Wai Cheng, meanwhile, emphasised that while STEM is critical, non-STEM areas should not be overlooked.

“We have seen institutions establish advisory boards with industry leaders, embed internships and work placements into degree programmes, and even co-develop courses with employers, especially in areas like design, communications and hospitality.

“These partnerships go beyond appearances; they deliver real-world skills, meaningful job placements, and industry-ready graduates.

“These partnerships go beyond appearances; they deliver real-world skills, meaningful job placements, and industry-ready graduates.

“That said, there is still room to strengthen the alignment between non-STEM programmes and the demands of fast-evolving job markets, especially in emerging areas like content creation, digital marketing, social innovation and careers related to environmental, social and governance initiatives,” she said, adding that to remain competitive, institutions must ensure their programmes stay relevant by embedding practical experiences like internships while equipping students with both technical and soft skills.

Lau also stressed that continuous engagement with industry at local, regional and international levels is vital to keeping curricula aligned with market demands and producing graduates who remain in high demand.

Malaysia, said Parmjit, already has what it takes to get ahead: English-medium instruction, internationally benchmarked programmes, competitive tuition fees and living costs, and continuous investment in modern campuses and resources to attract even more global learners.

But these strengths must now be strongly showcased in the global student recruitment arena, he asserted.

“Education Malaysia Global Services can champion Malaysia’s private universities abroad.

“The agency is best placed to highlight institutions that have invested heavily in providing attractive learning and living environments, alongside high-quality education and excellent student experiences,” he said.

Road to 2030

Parmjit noted that the key to staying competitive lies in internationalisation, mobility and innovation.

“Malaysian private institutions should intensify international mobility and recognition, as well as forge more transnational education (TNE) partnerships with reputed universities,” he said, adding that such efforts would broaden the range of unique programmes on offer and attract more international students.

He also called for greater flexibility around student work rights.

“It would be a big boost if post-study work schemes or visa flexibility were expanded to retain talented graduates. This will greatly enhance students’ interest in coming to Malaysia to study.

“This would help students defray their living expenses, and the extra income earned would in turn be spent here in Malaysia, especially as students tend to travel beyond KL during their holidays and experience the best of what Malaysian tourism has to offer,” he added.

For Parmjit, the latest QS rankings validate years of investment by private institutions in creating globally relevant offerings.

“The private sector is well poised and always prepared to capitalise on this recognition.

“Many member institutions already have high international student proportions and employ robust admission channels,” he said.

LauLau

Lau, however, stressed that while the QS recognition is important, rankings alone do not change global perceptions.

“We need to amplify this narrative through consistent communication, student testimonials and clear evidence of graduate success,” she said, while stressing the need to ensure momentum extends beyond KL.

“We should develop other cities – such as Penang, Johor Baru and Kuching – into student-friendly education hubs.

“This involves enhancing infrastructure, industry linkages, and student services,” she said, adding that with the right support and collaboration, KL’s success can be replicated and more Malaysian cities can be positioned as attractive destinations for international students.

She also said achieving the government’s 2030 goal of making Malaysia a regional and global education hub will depend on expanding the nation’s appeal and diversifying what it offers.

“With targeted investment and collaborative effort, Malaysia can not only sustain KL’s standing but also elevate other cities as attractive destinations for global learners,” she said.

Mapcu, said Parmjit, continuously plays a proactive role in policy advocacy, sector coordination and international branding.

“We work with the Higher Education Ministry and regulators on policies related to recruitment, quality assurance and graduate work rights; we help institutions benchmark and collaborate; and we amplify Malaysia’s position abroad through participation in global education fairs.

“Mapcu is fully committed to working hand in hand with government and institutions to ensure that KL – and by extension, Malaysia – capitalises on its inherent strengths and potential to achieve its goal of being a leading regional and global education hub by 2030,” he said.

 

In love with ‘second home’

INTERNATIONAL students from UCSI University share what it’s like to study in KL, which they fondly call their “second home”.

JenniferJennifer

I started my tertiary studies a year ago. When I arrived in KL, my first impression was that the country had nice food and a vibrant culture. But as I immersed myself more in the city, I fell in love with how developed its infrastructure was. As a student, this is the kind of place I was looking for. It is really convenient for me to get to university or head to the city centre to hang out during the weekends because the public transport is efficient and everything is affordable. I’m currently pursuing a mass communication degree, and there are many opportunities here. I love that many companies don’t shy away from hiring international students — it’s a great chance for me to broaden my horizons. My experience studying here has also given me valuable exposure that supports my future. KL has huge potential to rise in the QS rankings, with how integrated and safe the city is for students to explore on their own. It is one of the best places to discover who you are, to learn, and to build your career. -- Jennifer Janis, 23, Indonesia

SuyeonSuyeon

It has been 15 years since I first came to Malaysia. What began as a decision made by my parents, who saw the country’s potential for growth, turned into a long-term journey of learning, adapting and growing. Moving to a different country at a young age had its challenges. But over time, I came to truly appreciate what makes Malaysia such a unique and welcoming place to live and study in. Malaysia’s multilingual environment is another strength I deeply value. English, Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin are commonly spoken. As a student, this allows me to naturally broaden my linguistic skills and cultural understanding. It’s an experience that has prepared me well for global communication and cross-cultural collaboration — skills that are increasingly important in today’s world. Varsity life has also played a meaningful role in my growth — the student community is so open and engaging. As I prepare to graduate and step into the next chapter of my life, I’m grateful for the years I’ve spent in Malaysia. The lessons I’ve learnt, the people I’ve met, and the perspectives I’ve gained will stay with me — both as a person and as a qualified professional.-- Suyeon Huh,


Room for improvement

The Star https://www.thestar.com.my › education › 2025/09/07

12 hours ago — Asian cities rise in standings. The Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities Rankings 2026, which feature 150 cities and districts, also ...

Room for improvement



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 24, South Korea

SyedSyed

My friends and I were just talking about how it’s such a blessing to be studying in KL. From the moment you arrive at the airport, there’s a separate counter for international students — it makes you feel seen and welcomed. From the rich culture that allows students of any nationality to feel at home and the amazing places to visit, to the campus life that makes you feel part of a close-knit community - there’s so much KL gets right that many other places don’t. One important factor is that most international students feel safe in KL, no matter what is going on everywhere else in the world. I’ve seen firsthand how my varsity goes out of its way to support international students, especially those whose home countries are experiencing war and unrest. Initiatives like the International Buddy Programme and events like International Cultural Week really help us feel welcomed, safe and comfortable. --Syed Wajeeh Hassan, 20, Pakistan

Monday, July 21, 2025

A high target — can we meet it?

 Growth needed: The next five years will thus be crucial for Malaysia if it is to become a high-income nation. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star

HERE’S the good news – the World Bank has declared Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Penang, Sarawak and Selangor to be high-income states. The bad news, though, is that Malaysia as a whole is not there yet.

This is the latest high-income data based on Gross National Income (GNI), which is the total amount of factor incomes earned by the residents of a country. The country’s GNI per capita of RM53,400 annually falls short of the high-income threshold of RM63,000.

Kudos to Sarawak as it has solidified its position since joining the high-income state ranks in 2023. It must be doing something right.

Three years ago, there were only three states – Penang, KL and Labuan – on the list but Sarawak joined two years ago and Selangor made the cut last year.

Now, there are a total of five high-income states (including federal territories) but the vast majority of states are below the threshold – and that’s not good as they exert a pull on the country as a whole as it bids to join the club.

The findings, however, do not come as a surprise. Malaysia remains caught in the middle-income trap.

We are too rich to compete with low-cost economies like Vietnam and Cambodia but we are just unable to stand alongside high-income nations like South Korea and Singapore.

South Korea, once poorer than Malaysia in the 1960s, is now a global tech powerhouse. It achieved this through strategic industrial policy, heavy investment in education and R&D, and a relentless focus on productivity.

Singapore, without natural resources, became a financial and innovation hub through clean governance, meritocracy, and human capital development.

Malaysia now finds itself outpaced by these countries that were once on equal or even lesser footing, and if we are not serious about moving up, we could soon be overtaken by Vietnam.

This is not just about achieving a statistical milestone. It’s about ensuring Malaysians enjoy better jobs, stronger public services, global competitiveness, and the ability to keep our brightest minds at home.


The next five years will thus be crucial for Malaysia. We can’t afford to miss the boat.

The upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), covering 2026-2030 and Budget 2026 need to address the issues that are holding us back from becoming a high-income country. If we don’t, we will lose out to more of our neighbours.

RMK13 and Budget 2026 may represent our last – and best – chance to break free and secure high-income status.

For a start, the plans must boldly tackle governance and institutional weaknesses. Policy inconsistency, bureaucratic inefficiency, and rent-seeking behaviour continue to erode investor confidence.

RMK13 must be reform-driven and bold. It cannot be business as usual. Certainly, we don’t need the plan to be tabled with poetic language. It’s the content that matters.

A high-income country needs not only a strong economy, but strong institutions. For one, the judiciary has to be protected and judges must be persons of integrity. Perception is important.

A strong political will is also essential and Malaysia certainly cannot keep changing prime ministers and governments.

We need to fund the future, not the past, and we cannot live like we did in the past, with heavy subsidies which have spoiled Malaysians.

Where RMK13 provides the vision, Budget 2026 must be the engine. Fiscal policy must be repurposed not just to spend, but to invest – in people, productivity, and innovation.

As the world moves rapidly toward a knowledge- and innovation-based economy, Malaysia is at a critical juncture.

We have to increase funding for TVET (technical and vocational education and training), with incentives tied to graduate employability. Among others, we need:

> STEM scholarships and national reskilling initiatives for workers displaced by automation.

> Tax incentives and matching grants for R&D, automation, and green technologies.

> Expanded digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to promote inclusive growth.

> A Malaysian Innovation Fund to support start-ups in Artificial Intelligence, biotech, and climate tech

Malaysia must address its productivity crisis. Growth can no longer rely on cheap labour or natural resources. We must transform our industrial base through digitalisation, automation, and a strong pivot towards advanced manufacturing and services.

This means supporting high-value sectors like semiconductors, electric vehicles, biotechnology, and green energy.

To make these a reality, we must overhaul our education system. Our youth are entering a job market that demands digital skills, creativity, and adaptability.

Are our tertiary institutes producing the right kind of graduates who are trained and marketable? Malaysia needs graduates with strong technical skills in in-demand fields like IT, engineering and healthcare.

Strong soft skills, adaptability and an entrepreneurial mindset certainly help. It will be even better if they have the ability to speak and write in Bahasa Malaysia, English and Chinese.

With due respect, the teaching of the Laos and Cambodian languages in our schools can wait even though they may be just elective courses.

Within Asean, Malaysia has advantages over some member countries. Beside our language skills, we have an established legal system, and we have the British to thank for that.

Malaysia has a strong middle-class base as well as a sound political system. Our democratic system can be noisy at times but it’s often restrained.

Malaysia has enough lawyers and doctors and it doesn’t help that every year we produce students with a string of distinctions who believe they are entitled to places in the top universities in the country.

Are the distinctions secured by our SPM students even on par with the standards imposed by Singapore, Hong Kong and the United Kingdom?

RMK13 must prioritise TVET reform, industry-academia collaboration, and investments in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education from an early age.

We are still talking about STEM while China is already introducing AI modules – and at primary school level!

Third, the plan must put innovation and research at the heart of national strategy. Malaysia currently spends less than 1% of GDP on R&D. To become a creator – not just a user – of technology, this must rise to 2–3%, with strong government-industry-academia partnerships.

At the same time, Budget 2026 must address the brain drain by offering meaningful career paths and incentives for Malaysians abroad to return home – including tax relief, housing support, and leadership fast-tracks for top talent.

Expatriates with skills, and who have worked in Malaysia, surely deserve an easier track to be permanent residents.

Malaysia has the resources, the location, and the population to succeed – but seems to lack the political will and strategic coherence to execute bold reforms. We spend a great deal of time on inconsequential and unproductive political discourse, often on murky issues of race and religion.

Tomorrow’s investments in Malaysia are no longer about setting up factories, which outdated aging politicians still seem to think about when questioned about where foreign direct investments would go.

All is not lost, though. Attaining high-income status is not easy for any state or country. This year only one nation – Costa Rica – moved from upper middle income to high-income category.

But it is certainly not going to be easy for Malaysia. No one can predict what next year may bring given the uncertain and volatile economic outlook which doesn’t bode well for trading nations like Malaysia.

The World Bank high-income threshold is not fixed and it adjusts its measurement each year, so a lot depends on how Malaysia would compare with other nations but let’s not forget that even if we grow, other countries could compete harder and that could make the high-income goal even more distant.

Malaysians, especially the politicians, must understand this for the interest of the nation.

Look at the graph – the bottom three worst performing states are Kedah, Perlis and Kelantan, which speaks volumes. We can’t help these states if they prefer politicians who have promised them a ticket to heaven, while little is done for the here and now.

RMK13 and Budget 2026 can change that – if they are driven by vision, evidence, and courage.

For the country, the window to become a high-income nation is closing. We must act – boldly, intelligently, and urgently – before it shuts for good.

On the Beat | By Wong Chun Wai

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Kuala Lumpur ranked 22 in list of 100 best cities for remote work

 


KL ranked 22nd for remote work - The Star

The city to be in: Malaysia is a prime destination for employers looking for quality team members, and for many businesses to establish an Asian hub in Kuala Lumpur. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur made a significant leap to the 22nd position, a significant climb from its 84th place in the 2022 rankings, cementing its status as one of the premier global destinations for remote work.

This upward trajectory is mirrored by other Southeast Asian cities like Taipei, securing the 8th spot, and Bangkok, ranking 18th, according to Remote, a prominent global HR platform.

Published by Remote, the list of the top 100 global destinations for remote work showcases cities such as Madrid (Spain), Madeira (Portugal), Toronto (Canada), Auckland (New Zealand), and Tokyo (Japan) among the top 10 choices.

Factors such as quality of life, safety, internet infrastructure, cost of living, inflation, attractiveness, openness, and incentives for remote workers were meticulously considered in the analysis.

MORE NEWS

Utilising the latest data, the list aims to guide digital nomads and remote professionals in making informed decisions aligned with their personal preferences and career goals. Kuala Lumpur particularly stands out, ranking in the top five for its favourable remote work visa and incentive programs.

Remote underscores the increasing significance of selecting the right destination as remote work evolves into a lifestyle choice.

It highlighted Kuala Lumpur's appeal as a magnet for remote workers, reflecting the proactive stance of the Malaysian government in positioning itself as a prime destination for digital nomads within the ASEAN region.

The allure of Kuala Lumpur lies in its blend of a relatively low cost of living, attractive incentives for digital nomads, and the availability of fast and reliable internet services. Nonetheless, factors such as quality of life and openness have also played a pivotal role in shaping its overall ranking, it said.

Job van der Voort, co-founder and chief executive officer of Remote, highlighted the transformative nature of remote work, enabling professionals to sustain careers in environments that inspire productivity and balance.

This year's list reflects not only the best places for remote living and working but also the evolving needs of remote professionals in a post-pandemic world, he said.

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Monday, January 6, 2020

Mobile coverage snag as uers in many areas face connectivity issue while Malaysia moves into 5G era!

Pix for representational purpose only.

While Malaysia strives to move into the 5G era, the current 4G mobile network connectivity is still found wanting in many areas in the country, including the Klang Valley.

Mobile users in areas such as Taman TAR in Ampang, Jalan Damai Jasa in Alam Damai, Cheras Hartamas and certain areas in Subang, Selangor, face connectivity issues.

Wong Sew Kin, a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Engineering, Multimedia University, said there are areas within the Klang Valley that face a drop in network signals.

“Even places near my house in Bukit Beruntung, Rawang, have no signal at all let alone the internet,” he said, adding that more needs to be done for telecommunications infrastructure in Malaysia if it is to be on par with nations such as Singapore and China.

“We are venturing into 5G now but there are still problems with connectivity. We should address this to solidify our mobile network infrastructure so that we are able to make quick and steady advancement without having to worry about minor issues. It is important that we iron out the kinks.”

He added the lack of network signals can be attributed to the lack of base stations, or simply known as telco towers, in certain areas.

“As far as I know, the building of base stations has nothing to do with the government as it’s usually up to the telcos and they prioritise providing network connectivity in highly populated and commercial areas.

“However, the government can play its part by providing incentives for telcos to set up more base stations to ensure that we are fully connected,” he said.

Anusha Ravi, a resident of Alam Damai in Kuala Lumpur, told theSun she often has to direct her e-hailing drivers through the phone to her residence as the drivers are unable to use navigation apps due to the poor network signal.

A resident of Taman Billion in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, said he has faced poor network coverage for years despite being close to commercial areas.

“I have complained about this many times but nothing has been done,” he said, adding that he has to walk some distance away from his house just to make a call.

However, another expert who declined to be named, specialising in base station construction and installation, said the government is already doing all it can to ensure connectivity.

“The government, through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s Universal Service Provision fund, provides contractors and telcos opportunities to develop network infrastructure and connectivity in under-served areas, especially rural places.

“To my knowledge, sometimes we face issues such as a drop in network signals due to lack of base stations within a certain range. Sometimes there is no land to build base stations in between.”

Telcos sometimes face problems when planning to build base stations due to protests by residents in the area.

For instance, residents in Taman Sri Puteri, Bayan Lepas in Penang, successfully lobbied for the removal of telco towers in their area recently.

Among their reasons was that the towers were too close to their homes and thus were a health hazard.

Tutela, an independent crowdsourced data company, noted in its “State of mobile Networks 2019: Southeast Asia” report last year that Thailand beat Malaysia in a test where a mobile connection was good enough for basic internet usage.

The Philippines and Indonesia came out third and fourth.

“All four countries in the report are relatively close when it comes to basic quality. Thailand takes first place, with users able to make a voice over internet protocol call – a technology that allows you to make voice calls using a broadband internet connection or check emails at least 92.5% of the time when connected to one of the country’s networks.”

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The battle over 5G network suppliers is part of a broader push by the Trump  administration to check China's rise as a global technology powerhouse.PHOTO: REUTERS 

 

New decade, new Malaysian education: For the sake of our children and our future, Mazlee’s replacement should be a qualified and capable