PUTRAJAYA: The Higher Education Ministry will continue to closely monitor the safety of Malaysian students in West Asian countries by seeking guidance from the Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) following the evolving security situation in the region.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said his ministry has taken note of recent developments, including the United States' travel advisory urging its citizens to leave the region.
He added that the ministry will take all necessary precautionary measures to ensure the safety of Malaysian students.
Zambry said the Higher Education Ministry relies on Wisma Putra as its main point of reference and will continue to seek the ministry's guidance to ensure that the movements and welfare of Malaysian students studying in the region are closely monitored.
"In this crisis involving Iran, we know that the United States' foreign policy is constantly changing. Today's decision may be different tomorrow.
"Nevertheless, we will take every necessary precaution to ensure the whereabouts of Malaysians, particularly our students in West Asian countries, are closely monitored and that their safety is guaranteed," he said.
He told reporters this after the closing ceremony of the International Charisma Programme: Malaysia Madani Nationhood 2026, here on Monday (Aug 3).
Earlier, in his speech, Zambry said Malaysian students pursuing higher education abroad were strategic national assets and expressed hope that they would return to contribute their knowledge and expertise to the country's development after completing their studies. — Bernama
