General : Malaysia Targets 250,000 International Students By 2030 - Zambry

Malaysia aims to welcome around 250,000 international students by the year 2030, according to Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir. Currently, the country hosts approximately 170,000 students from 180 different nations, according to the minister. Speaking to reporters following the 2026 International Young Future Leaders (iFUTURE) Summit at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, Zambry emphasized the importance of a diverse range of source countries to cement Malaysia's reputation as a top choice for higher education.

He noted that a wide variety of student backgrounds enhances the appeal of Malaysia as an educational destination. The minister attributed the country's success to the enriching experience international students bring, stating that their presence is expected to generate at least RM16 billion annually for the Malaysian economy. This projection also accounts for the indirect economic benefits stemming from the graduates' subsequent employment and spending.

Zambry further explained that the Malaysian Higher Education Ministry utilizes the MyMOHES system to monitor the employment status of graduates for a period of three years post-graduation. This tracking system allows the ministry to continuously assess the progress and job market outcomes of international students upon completing their studies.