International students do not reduce opportunities for Malaysians, says Unimap Vice-Chancellor

Universiti Malaysia Perlis (Unimap) Vice-Chancellor Prof. Datuk Dr. Zaliman Sauli has strongly refuted claims that the admission of international students into public universities diminishes opportunities for local Malaysian students. He asserts that such allegations do not reflect the actual policies of the nation's higher education system.

Sauli explained that the internationalization agenda is a long-standing strategic pillar of Malaysia's Higher Education Strategic Plan (PSPTN), aimed at establishing the country as a world-class higher education hub. This policy, he noted, is based on comprehensive studies and benchmarks from international organizations like UNESCO, OECD, and the World Bank. Crucially, international students do not displace local students; their admission is managed through a distinct mechanism with rigorous entry criteria, including approvals from university senates, the Ministry of Higher Education, the Immigration Department, and Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).

He further highlighted that local students consistently receive priority through the national intake channels, with international students comprising approximately 10% or less of the total enrollment in public universities. This demonstrates that the vast majority of places are reserved for Malaysians. Sauli also pointed out the significant benefits of international student presence, including the enrichment of the learning environment through cultural exchange, knowledge transfer, and the formation of global networks. Additionally, international students contribute to enhancing university quality through academic and research collaborations, joint publications, innovation development, and strengthening institutional reputation in international rankings.

Beyond academic and cultural advantages, Sauli stated that international students also generate a positive economic impact for Malaysia. The country has set a target to attract 250,000 international students by 2030, reinforcing its aspiration to be a globally recognized center for higher education. These efforts are seen as vital indicators for world university rankings and overall national development.