Studying in Malaysia

Studying in Malaysia

Most people can trace their roots back to Europe or the United States, where their families originally hailed from. For those who were brought up abroad, the concept of roots can seem less relevant. However, for those who have recently moved abroad or are planning on moving abroad in the near future, understanding where your roots lie can be critical to fully embracing your new surroundings. It is often said that a country’s culture is reflected in its cuisine, and the same can be said about how a country’s people behave. Being raised abroad, you may not have fully appreciated the customs and traditions of the country where you now live until you try to explain them to someone who is not used to hearing them. Even then, some people may not understand your perspective and could inadvertently offend you or your family members by their behavior. If you are planning on studying or working in  international school in malaysia , here are some of the things you may need to know:

immigration laws

If you are the offspring of a Malaysian immigrant, you may belong to the country of Malaysia automatically. Everyone else needs to apply for citizenship. To qualify, you must either be born in Malaysia or have lived in the country for at least one year immediately prior to the application date. If you are 18 years old or older, you must have graduated from a recognized institution of learning or have possessed a recognized qualification. If you are applying for residency, you must either have graduated from a recognized institution of learning or possess a recognized qualification. If you are the spouse of a Malaysian citizen, you automatically become a citizen of Malaysia. To qualify, you must either be married to a Malaysian citizen or reside in the country with your spouse. Dependent children under the age of 18 may also qualify for citizenship. To qualify, you must either be married to a Malaysian citizen or arrive in the country with your spouse and children.

climate

Malaysia is known for its humid climate, which can be challenging for those who don't adapt well to heat. The temperature can fluctuate wildly, so it is important to prepare for the cold as well as the heat. You may have to bundle up in warm clothes when you arrive in the country and take regular breaks to allow your body to warm up. Fortunately, the country is rich in nature, which makes it easier for people to adapt. If you ever visit Malaysia during the off-season, you may notice that the weather is cooler and the environment less crowded. If you are planning to move there, take time off during the hottest season. Otherwise, you may end up battling heatstroke instead of enjoying your new life in the country. In the summertime, it is advisable to stay indoors and avoid going outside unless you need to. Remember that air-conditioning in Malaysia is very common, so you may not feel the heat as much as you would in other parts of the world. In the wintertime, it is advisable to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid going outside unless you have to. The heat can be brutal in the country during the summertime, so during this time it is advisable to stay indoors as much as possible and not exert yourself too much. The climate in Malaysia can be unpredictable, so if you have never experienced cold weather before, it may be challenging to know how to react. Always have extra layers on hand in case of sudden temperature drops, as you can never be sure what the weather will be like. For more on the climate in Malaysia, check out this useful blog post by https://www.miamicountry.com/blog/

religion

While most people in Malaysia follow Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity, there are still many who follow traditional Malay customs and practices. As in other Southeast Asian countries, those who follow traditional customs will likely be more receptive to your religious beliefs. You may find that many people are open-minded when it comes to other religions, but adhere to their own traditions with strong passion. You will therefore need to be mindful of how you present yourself to the public and avoid any actions that could lead to a clash. Religion in Malaysia is generally practiced in a peaceful way, so you should not expect any trouble.

cuisine

Like many other Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is rich in cuisine. You may find that many restaurants in the country offer an abundance of European-inspired food, as well as Chinese, Indian, and other Asian dishes. Those who follow a specific diet may find it difficult to eat out, as many restaurants in the country offer a choice of dishes that you may want to avoid. Always try to eat local food whenever you can, as it is often the case that the restaurants that serve the cuisine you are not familiar with are the best ones. Local restaurants commonly offer an insight into the culture and way of life in the country, as well as a taste of the local cuisine that you may not get in other places. Take time to explore the cuisine of Malaysia and sample as much of it as you can. Some commonly-served local dishes include:

  • nasi lemak (rice with coconut milk, spices, and vegetables)
  • popiah (creamy vegetable salad with spicy peanut dressing)
  • curry (Indian-style spice mixture)
  • polo (steamed pudding)
  • ikan bakar (grilled fish)
  • maamum (spicy beef salad)
  • chicken rice (steamed chicken mixed with rice)
  • noodle kuah (noodle soup with beef and ginger)

While Malaysia is a multicultural country, there is still a clear divide between the country's English speakers and its non-English speakers. People who are not from the country often find it difficult to communicate with the locals due to the language barrier. Due to the country's growing reputation as a haven for expatriates, there are many English teachers and other professionals who now live and work in Malaysia. If you are an English-speaking expatriate, you may find that many people are able to communicate with you in English, though you will still need to learn the basics of Bahasa Malaysia, the country's official language. Locals who have attended English-speaking schools will often exhibit stronger command of the language than those who have not. If you are not a fluent English speaker or are feeling frustrated by needing to learn the language, consider studying in Malaysia. The country's native speakers may find it difficult to find jobs in their home town, as many high-paying positions in the country are held by people who speak English. If you are looking for a new country to call home, Malaysia is certainly a contender.