International Student Guide

STUDYING IN MALAYSIA
Malaysia is fast gaining reputation as a centre of excellence in tertiary education in this region. This has attracted students from many countries of the world. Tertiary education is offered both through the public and private institutions of higher learning. KBU International College is a preferred education destination for many international students because of the opportunity to acquire internationally-recognised qualifications at substantial saving in costs, as well as its good reputation for delivering quality education. In this context, the College has consistently pursued its effort to obtain accreditation for the programmes it conducts.

LIVING IN MALAYSIA
Malaysia is a modern, multiracial, multi-cultural country with a population of about 26 million. Islam is the official religion, but other races practice their religions freely. Malaysians are friendly and warm towards foreigners. The Malay Language is the official language of the country. English is widely used and it greatly facilitates living and traveling within the country for those who speak the language.

Climate
Malaysia is an equatorial country with a hot and humid climate during most periods of the year. The wettest periods result from the heavy rainfall brought by the monsoons, with some dry inter-monsoons periods. The average temperatures range between 22 ºC and 32 ºC. You do not need to have special clothing, as the climate is sunny almost throughout the year. Although hot in some periods, a ceiling fan in the room is enough to keep you comfortable.

Food and Daily Living
Locally produced and imported goods are available in abundance. The costs of food and clothing are relatively cheap. Because of the plurality of its population, there is ample variety of foods to cater to individual preferences, for religious or other reasons. One can budget for one’s needs easily and live reasonably well on RM15 a day.

Lifestyle
The College is situated in an urban area in the suburb of Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. The township, where the College is situated, has comprehensive and modern amenities. These include bookshops, supermarkets, eating outlets, cineplexes, clinics, banks, post office, laundry services and department stores. In fact, the township offers a one-stop-centre for all educational, recreational and entertainment needs of students.


Cost of Living
Food, rent, services and transportation expenses are relatively low in Malaysia, and one can live comfortably on approximately RM 1,000 a month, based on the following estimated costs:

Estimated Living Cost in Malaysia
Room Rental   RM280
Food                  RM480
Transport          RM  40
Laundry             RM  80
Miscellaneous RM120

Miscellaneous Information
Time : Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Currency : Ringgit Malaysia (RM)
(Currently USD1.00 = RM3.36. Exchange rate is subject to change.)
Electricity supply : All electrical items operate in a 240- volt 50 cycle power supply.