Hi there! My name is Masako, a former exchange student from Japan. I used to study in Sarawak, a state on the eastern side of Malaysia. For anyone interested in studying abroad, I’d love to share why Malaysia would be the perfect choice for you.  

First, let me mention how nice the people here are to foreigners. Right from the very first moment you meet a Malaysian, they greet you warmly and often talk to you, making you feel comfortable. I clearly remember that during my taxi rides, the drivers would often chat with me, proudly sharing information about things like their local food, language and sightseeing spots. 

One interesting thing I noticed is that dishes like “Laksa” (a noodle soup) and “Roti Canai” (a flaky flatbread) were always at the top of their must-try lists! Following their recommendations guided me to the local food culture, and those dishes soon became some of my favorites. If you’re unsure about what to do or eat, feel free to ask the people around you. I’m sure they are always happy to share their knowledge about Malaysia.

Another aspect that makes Malaysia special is its cultural diversity. The country is home to many ethnic groups, including Malays, Chinese, and Indians, all living together while respecting each other’s cultures. This mixture of cultures is influenced in everything—from food to festivals, and it adds richness and vibrancy to life here. 
Well, it's hard to choose just one favourite moment here. Even simple days spent taking classes or relaxing in my dorm were special in their own way, and I’ll always cherish those calm yet happy times. But if I had to pick one, it would be visiting Kuching’s Waterfront. Each visit felt unique, with calming river views, delicious street food, and live music filling the air. There’s a countdown event held every year, along with fireworks, stalls, and a lot of people enjoying the moment, and I got to join it during my stay. It was just so special!

Studying at the University of Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) was a great experience. The university worked hard to involve us international students in the local community. During my first week, we had the chance to learn a traditional dance and even performed it on stage! I felt nervous at first, but seeing the friendly faces in the audience helped me relax.

There was always something happening at UNIMAS, from cultural events to sports, making it easy to make new friends and learn about the local culture. The teachers were kind and approachable, always ready to help us with any problems or questions we had.

Overall, my time at UNIMAS was more than just studying; it was about making connections and creating wonderful memories. If you want to study in a place filled with rich culture, friendly people, and endless opportunities for fun and learning, I recommend you come to Malaysia.