More Than Academics: What Malaysia Taught Me
More Than Academics: What Malaysia Taught Me
Hiii:) My name is Mei, and I am from Japan. I am currently studying International Relations at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) in Malaysia. Life in Malaysia has been filled with new cultures, inspiring encounters, and unforgettable moments with friends from all over the world.
Growing up in Japan, I was brought up with only one language and one culture. That is why living in Malaysia has been incredibly eye-opening. Studying in Malaysia has truly broadened my worldview, becoming one of the most valuable experiences of my life. I hope my story can encourage someone who is thinking about studying abroad.
When I first arrived in Malaysia, I was full of excitement and curiosity. During orientation week, I met students from more than 30 countries, many from places I had never even heard of before. Living in a multicultural environment for the first time felt fresh and invigorating, as every day was a new discovery. Wanting to learn more about the world and meet people from different backgrounds quickly became my biggest motivation here.
In class, every classmate came from a different country, and even a simple discussion sometimes felt like a small United Nations meeting. The active learning experience of gaining real perspectives beyond the textbook was intellectually satisfying and deeply meaningful for me.
One of my most memorable experiences at APU was serving as a Student Ambassador, where I led a diverse team of more than 140 members from many different countries. Working together on orientation programmes and events taught me the importance of trust, communication, and leadership in a multicultural setting. I also founded the APU Japanese Community, creating a space where more than 400 Japanese students can connect and support each other—an initiative that became one of my biggest challenges and sources of growth.
Outside of university, I had the honour of representing Japan at the ASEAN+Japan Youth Economic Forum 2025. Together with delegates from all 10 ASEAN countries, I co-wrote policy proposals and presented them to the Prince of Selangor and Malaysia’s Minister of Environment. It was a truly inspiring and empowering experience.
One of my favourite things about living in Malaysia is spending late nights at Mamak stalls with friends, talking about life over local food. On weekends, I love exploring islands outside of KL, going hiking, and enjoying an active lifestyle.
These hands-on experiences have shaped me far beyond than what I could learn in a classroom. Living in such a multicultural environment has broadened my perspective, and it has strengthened my desire to work in an international field after graduation.
The journey of pushing myself, building connections, and continuously upgrading who I am through different cultures has enriched my life in countless ways. Studying in Malaysia is more than just academics—it is truly a life-changing experience. And in this environment, I believe that anyone’s potential can expand far more than they ever imagined.
Growing up in Japan, I was brought up with only one language and one culture. That is why living in Malaysia has been incredibly eye-opening. Studying in Malaysia has truly broadened my worldview, becoming one of the most valuable experiences of my life. I hope my story can encourage someone who is thinking about studying abroad.
When I first arrived in Malaysia, I was full of excitement and curiosity. During orientation week, I met students from more than 30 countries, many from places I had never even heard of before. Living in a multicultural environment for the first time felt fresh and invigorating, as every day was a new discovery. Wanting to learn more about the world and meet people from different backgrounds quickly became my biggest motivation here.
In class, every classmate came from a different country, and even a simple discussion sometimes felt like a small United Nations meeting. The active learning experience of gaining real perspectives beyond the textbook was intellectually satisfying and deeply meaningful for me.
One of my most memorable experiences at APU was serving as a Student Ambassador, where I led a diverse team of more than 140 members from many different countries. Working together on orientation programmes and events taught me the importance of trust, communication, and leadership in a multicultural setting. I also founded the APU Japanese Community, creating a space where more than 400 Japanese students can connect and support each other—an initiative that became one of my biggest challenges and sources of growth.
Outside of university, I had the honour of representing Japan at the ASEAN+Japan Youth Economic Forum 2025. Together with delegates from all 10 ASEAN countries, I co-wrote policy proposals and presented them to the Prince of Selangor and Malaysia’s Minister of Environment. It was a truly inspiring and empowering experience.
One of my favourite things about living in Malaysia is spending late nights at Mamak stalls with friends, talking about life over local food. On weekends, I love exploring islands outside of KL, going hiking, and enjoying an active lifestyle.
These hands-on experiences have shaped me far beyond than what I could learn in a classroom. Living in such a multicultural environment has broadened my perspective, and it has strengthened my desire to work in an international field after graduation.
The journey of pushing myself, building connections, and continuously upgrading who I am through different cultures has enriched my life in countless ways. Studying in Malaysia is more than just academics—it is truly a life-changing experience. And in this environment, I believe that anyone’s potential can expand far more than they ever imagined.
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