ICEF Insights 2027 highlights Malaysia's growing position in international education

BERLIN, Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Malaysia continues to strengthen its position as a preferred international study destination, featuring among the "Big 14" destinations in ICEF Insights 2027. Among the 14 destinations covered, Malaysia recorded the third-highest international student growth over both the five-year period and the latest reporting year.

Malaysia's inclusion among the "Big 14" was highlighted during ICEF Berlin 2026, held from 1 to 3 November. The findings reflect the changing landscape of international student mobility, with more students choosing destinations across Asia and Europe alongside the traditional markets of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

Malaysia recorded international student growth of 70% over five years and 16% in the latest reporting year, exceeding the growth rates of all four traditional destinations across both periods. The publication reported 159,100 international students in Malaysia as of December 2025, while the country currently hosts more than 170,000 international students.

Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) Chief Executive Officer Novie Tajuddin, who led the Malaysian delegation alongside five Malaysian higher education institutions, said the findings reflect the collective contribution of Malaysia's higher education sector.

"This is a proud achievement for Malaysia. It reflects the sustained commitment of our higher education institutions to delivering quality education, strengthening international partnerships and providing an experience that students value and recommend to others."

"Our institutions are central to this progress. Their dedication, together with the support of the Ministry of Higher Education and our partners, continues to build confidence in Malaysia as a preferred study destination," he said.

Malaysia's growth is also reflected across its five leading source markets for higher education. China accounted for 62,200 students, an increase of 11%, followed by Indonesia with 13,000 students (+13%) and Bangladesh with 11,400 (+29%). India and Pakistan recorded 6,200 (+15%) and 6,000 students (+20%), respectively.

Malaysia's combination of quality education, affordable study and living costs, and a safe, multicultural environment continues to attract students and families. English is widely used in higher education, providing students with access to a broad range of programmes.

"Our priority is to ensure that growing interest is supported by a positive student experience. EMGS will continue working with our institutions and partners to provide clear information, facilitate student pass applications and support students from the moment they arrive," Novie added.

Malaysia's progress in student recruitment is complemented by international recognition for its student support services. In September, EMGS's International Student Arrival Centre (ISAC) won the Student Support Award at The PIEoneer Awards 2026, held at Guildhall, London.

ISAC was selected ahead of seven other finalists from Canada, Singapore and the United Kingdom, including UCAS and the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).

Operating around the clock at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2, ISAC provides assistance before immigration clearance, guiding international students through arrival procedures and offering a welcoming start to their education journey in Malaysia.

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About Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS)

Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) is an official agency under the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia. EMGS promotes Malaysia as a talent and knowledge hub and a preferred education destination for international students. It also facilitates the movement of international students to Malaysia, including visa processing.

About International Student Arrival Centre (ISAC) 

ISAC is a dedicated arrival facility established by EMGS to welcome and assist international students entering Malaysia. Located at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2, ISAC provides dedicated support upon arrival, guiding students through the necessary arrival and immigration procedures and ensuring a smooth, organised and welcoming start to their study journey in Malaysia.

MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Aisya (EMGS Corporate Communications)
CONTACT NO.: +603 2180 0800
EMAIL:  comms@educationmalaysia.gov.my