Malaysia Targets 250,000 International Students By 2030

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 (Bernama) -- Malaysia aims to attract about 250,000 international students by 2030, focusing on a diversity of source countries to strengthen its position as a preferred higher education destination.

Higher Education Minister Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said about 170,000 international students from 180 countries are currently pursuing their studies in Malaysia.

"When there are many students from various countries, Malaysia becomes a good destination for them to study," he told reporters after closing the 2026 International Young Future Leaders (iFUTURE) Summit at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur here Tuesday.

Zambry said the presence of international students is projected to contribute at least RM16 billion a year to the national economy.

He added that the projection did not account for the spillover effects of other economic activities that also generate income for local businesses.

-- BERNAMA