Hi there! I’m Ali Muhammad, a once-reserved, now-bubbly student from Pakistan, pursuing a degree in Economics at Universiti Malaya. When I first arrived in Kuala Lumpur, the skyscrapers seemed intimidating, and the bustling food markets overwhelmed my senses. But little did I know, Malaysia would soon become my classroom not just for academics, but for leadership, resilience, and cultural connection.

Malaysian universities don’t just encourage leadership; they demand it. When I joined UMISA (Universiti Malaya International Students’ Association), I never imagined I’d direct a 150-person event like Desi Night nor did I know I would take part in my faculty’s yearly Deepavali celebration. Yet here, opportunities find you. Leading a team of 30 students from eight nationalities, I honed crisis management (like relocating our venue overnight!) by getting creative. These experiences aren’t just résumé boosters—they’re confidence builders. Malaysia’s “boleh” (“can do”) ethos pushes you to take risks, fail, and try again, all within a supportive community.

Now, we are all aware that as an international student, budget matters. Malaysia offers world-class education at a fraction of Western costs. My tuition at Universiti Malaya, a top 100 global university, is affordable, and living expenses are manageable. From delicious yet affordable street food (nasi lemak for as low as RM1!) to subsidized campus housing, I’ve balanced my finances without breaking the bank!

And now to everyone’s favorite topic—food! Malaysia’s food culture prioritizes accessibility, diversity, and affordability. From morning nasi lemak stalls to late-night mamak cafés, meals are quick, flavorful, and accessible. Campus food courts and night markets serve as social hubs where students gather over shared plates of satay or char kway teow, bridging cultural gaps through casual conversations. Meals at campus and food stalls rarely cost over RM10. My favorite dishes are nasi lemak and nasi kandar, and teh tarik for my go-to drink.

A note to future students: Malaysia won’t just ease your homesickness; it’ll redefine your potential. Whether you’re directing a cultural spectacle, debating economic policies with classmates from 20 countries, or sharing roti canai with a roomful of strangers, this nation teaches you to lead with curiosity, not fear. In Malaysia, your voice matters—no matter where you’re from.

To sum, Malaysia is more than a destination for academic pursuit—it’s a transformative journey where skyscrapers become mentors, cultural collisions turn into connections, and timid students evolve into bold leaders. My time here has taught me that growth thrives at the intersection of challenge and community. For international students, Malaysia isn’t just a place to earn a degree; it’s a launchpad for discovering your voice, embracing diversity, and redefining what you’re capable of.