“I Hate Studying in Malaysia Because I Can’t Work,” Claims International Student
Malaysia Seen as Affordable, But Not Perfect
For many international students, Malaysia is often viewed as an attractive education hub due to its relatively affordable tuition fees and cost of living. However, a recent viral interview suggests that not all foreign students share the same positive experience.
In a spontaneous TikTok interview conducted by a content creator, several international students were asked about their honest opinions on studying in Malaysia, and one response in particular quickly caught public attention.
“I Hate Studying in Malaysia Because I Can’t Work”
@easyuni1 Nothing much to hate about studying in Malaysia? Let's find out. #StudyAbroad #StudyinMalaysia #InternationalStudents #StudyinAsia #FYP #EasyUni #StudentInterview
♬ original sound - EasyUni | Study in Malaysia - EasyUni | Study in Malaysia
One male international student openly stated, “I hate studying in Malaysia,” not because of the education system or academic quality, but because international students are largely restricted from working while studying.
He agreed with the interviewer’s comment that Malaysia has strict laws regarding employment for foreign students, saying the rules make it difficult for them to earn extra income to support themselves during their studies.
Despite this, he clarified that this was the main issue he had with Malaysia, adding that he appreciated the relatively low cost of daily necessities such as food and basic items.
Mixed Opinions From Other International Students
The interview also featured other international students who shared different perspectives. One female student said she did not enjoy Malaysian food, explaining that the flavours did not suit her personal taste. Another male student mentioned that the hot weather was something he struggled to adapt to.
However, the majority of students interviewed gave positive feedback about their experience in Malaysia. They praised the country’s public transportation, safety for women, wide variety of food options, and the quality of academic programmes and teaching staff at local universities.
Why International Students Are Not Allowed to Work
Following the video’s spread, local netizens flooded the comment section with explanations and opinions on why international students face strict work restrictions in Malaysia.
Many pointed out that the policy exists to prevent visa misuse. Without employment limits, individuals could potentially apply for student visas as a “backdoor” method to enter the country for illegal work rather than genuine education.
According to netizens, these restrictions help ensure that student visas are issued only to those who truly intend to study.
Working Is Possible, But With Strict Conditions
Some commenters also clarified that international students are not completely barred from working. Under existing guidelines, students may work during long semester breaks, provided the holiday exceeds seven days, and only for a maximum of 20 hours per week.
In addition, permission must be obtained through the university and relevant authorities, a process many described as complicated and time-consuming.
Concerns Over Local Job Competition
Others raised concerns that allowing international students to work freely could reduce job opportunities for local citizens, potentially creating long-term economic and employment issues.
This perspective further fuelled debate online, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing international education, labour protection, and immigration control.
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