Positive trend of Malaysian students studying in New Zealand

KUALA LUMPUR: More than 2,000 Malaysian students are currently pursuing their education in New Zealand, said Education New Zealand regional director of South, Southeast Asia and the Middle East John Laxon.
He said the numbers of Malaysian students who chose New Zealand as their study destination had increased to ten percent last year and the number is expected to grow in the near future.
"Education is New Zealand's fourth largest industry with more than 150,000 international students who chose to study in New Zealand every year.
"We had students coming to New Zealand for a long time since the 1950s through the Colombo Plan," he said during an exclusive media round table on education between Malaysia and New Zealand here, today.
"These positive trends reflect the strong relationship between Malaysia and New Zealand, with thousands of Malaysian students now forging impressive careers in Malaysia and around the world," he said, adding that he looked forward to welcoming more students in the near future.
Laxon further explained that New Zealand provides a holistic education experience, especially among international students.
He said their government through the Education New Zealand as well as institutions focused on positive building among international students by having a great range of students' societies.
"We also provide great life experiences among international students in terms of sports, culture and society," he said, adding that the Malaysian societies are one of the large contributors in terms of culture and lifestyle in their universities.
Universities in New Zealand, which had halal food options as well as clubs and societies, played important roles in supporting and giving advice to international students who faced difficulties in terms of accommodation and other needs.
Laxon also gave an assurance to parents that not only is New Zealand a safe English speaking country but the learning institutions are also capable of providing a better learning environment.
Towards this end, he invited students and families to attend the New Zealand Education Fair which will be held from July 29 to 30 at the One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya. — Bernama