The true value of international students

RECENT debates have raised concerns that Malaysia may be admitting “too many” international students, potentially crowding out opportunities for locals. But the facts tell a different story. Universities like Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) show that internationalisation, when managed responsibly, actually expands opportunities and enriches education for Malay-sians.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, USM offered 4,236 undergraduate places, which was more than initially planned. Over 60% of these students come from B40 (lower income) families. Inter-national students make up less than 10% of the intake.

Internationalisation is not about replacing local students. It is about enriching their education. At USM, students from over 80 countries bring global perspectives into the classroom. Malaysian students gain exposure to diverse cultures, ideas, and ways of thinking, the skills that are essential in today’s global job market.

In fact, internationalisation helps Malaysian students compete globally. Employers now seek graduates who are adaptable, culturally fluent, and globally-minded. Studying alongside international peers builds these qualities naturally without needing to go abroad.

It also boosts research. Inter-national postgraduates often collaborate on projects, bringing fresh ideas and expanding Malaysia’s academic reach. When they return home, they become informal ambassadors, promoting Malaysia and opening doors for future partnerships.

Economically, international students are an asset. In countries like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, they contribute billions annually. Malay-sia benefits too: International students pay full fees and spend locally, supporting universities and communities. Importantly, they do not take away seats from Malaysians, as enrolment quotas are tightly regulated.

The real risk is not in embracing internationalisation but in turning away from it. A post- Covid-19 pandemic report by the US-based Migration Policy Institute warns that countries that restrict international student enrolments too aggressively risk undermining their own higher education systems, losing vital revenue, weakening research output, and diminishing global influence.

In today’s competitive education landscape, stepping back would not protect Malaysian students; it would isolate them and erode the strength of institutions meant to empower them.

Malaysia must stay the course. A responsible internationalisation strategy keeps education accessible and affordable for locals, while opening doors to global opportunities.

It brings the world into our classrooms, giving every Malay-sian student, regardless of background, a chance to thrive in a connected world.

International students do not compete with locals, they complement them. They help raise academic standards, broaden perspectives, and prepare our graduates for success in a global economy. The evidence is clear: when done right, internationalisation protects local access, strengthens national education, and empowers Malaysians to lead on the world stage.

DR ALLA BAKSH MOHAMED AYUB KHAN and

PROF DR HAZRI JAMIL

School of Languages, Literacies & Translation

Universiti Sains Malaysia