Kuala Lumpur - A Unique Experience
When you think of international school in malaysia , your probably think of beautiful beaches and tall, golden-haired men in bright, tropical swimsuits. But did you know that Malaysia is actually a very diverse country, offering a different culture, cuisine and environment to the one you might have expected? It's true, and that's what makes it such an interesting place to study and make new connections overseas. If you're considering studying in Malaysia, whether it is for a gap year or a permanent move, here's what you need to know.
The Culture
As we've established, Malaysia is a very diverse country with a lot to offer. One of the best things about the country is its people. While they may follow Buddhist beliefs, they are also deeply rooted in their Hindu beliefs. This combined with their love for nature makes for a very interesting mix of cultures and religion within the country.
Since the majority of the population follow Buddhism, the country has become very popular with tourists. There are a lot of temples and shopping centers that line the streets. And if you visit one of the larger cities, such as Kuala Lumpur, you'll see that the mix of cultures is very present and vibrant. If you're looking for a truly unique experience, it's advisable to avoid the larger cities and head to the interior where the people are genuinely friendly and welcoming.
The Cuisine
If you're visiting Malaysia, you'll undoubtedly be struck by the country's culinary delights. Malaysian cooks are well known for using a lot of coconut and fruit in their recipes, so you're sure to find plenty of fresh tropical ingredients at every meal. This is not to say that you won't enjoy traditional Chinese and Indian dishes either.
One of the most popular dishes in Malaysia is Nasi Lemak. This is a classic and one of the most recognizable native dishes in the country. Usually consisting of rice and vegetables served in a coconut soup, this is a complete meal in itself and a great way to introduce yourself to Malaysian cuisine. You'll also find a wide variety of Chinese and Indian food, if you're looking to try something new. And of course, no trip to Malaysia would be complete without trying their famous pandan leaves. These are available everywhere and add a wonderful fragrance and a vibrant color to a dessert or a cup of coffee.
The Climate
As we've established, Malaysia is a tropical country and you'll need something warm to wear whenever you go outside. For those who don't want to stay within the four walls of a house or flat, Malaysia has a lot to offer with its warm climate. You'll get to enjoy sunshine all year round, which is great for your skin and Vitamin D, and you won't need to be packed away in layers like the rest of us. This means you can take your clothes off whenever you want and enjoy the breeze on a summer day.
That's not to say that Malaysia doesn't get cold. There's actually a lot of rain in the region, which causes the air to become dense and dark, especially in the mornings. This is the perfect environment for some of the country's more aggressive pests, such as mosquitoes and snakes. So if you're looking for something a little more peaceful and comfortable, you might want to avoid the coast and head inland.
The Education System
If you're looking to study in Malaysia, you'll need to prepare yourself for a very different kind of education to what you're used to. English won't be taught in the same way as you're used to learning it, and you'll need to adapt yourself accordingly. Malaysia follows a British-based education system and as a result, their school days look a bit like an English garden. With brightly colored buildings, playgrounds and green trees, it won't be hard to find your way around if you know where you're going.
Even the tiniest Malaysian towns and villages have at least one school, so finding classes shouldn't be a problem. Since most of the teachers and staff are expats, you'll get a different education experience than you would back home. Even the secondary school graduation exam, which follows a British system, isn't at all what you'd expect. It's more about getting a job and starting a career than an easy ride to university.
If you're looking for a new experience and are thinking of studying in Malaysia, you're in for a treat. This country has a lot to offer and even if it's a little different to what you're used to, you'll have the opportunity to learn a new language and meet new people.