EDM_20191223

Amazing
Learning.
Global
Success.

Learning is about getting better.

Established in 1960, Tenby Schools equips students
(aged 3-18) for local and global success by delivering
Amazing Learning throughout its extensive network of
private International and National Schools in Malaysia.
In January 2018, Tenby Schools joined the International
Schools Partnership (ISP), a Learning focused, growing and
financially secure group of 40 schools around the world.

To find out more about ISP and to secure your child’s
place with the Tenby Schools family, please visit:
schools.tenby.edu.my

Ipoh – Penang – Setia Eco Park
Setia Eco Gardens – Setia EcoHill
Tropicana Aman – Miri



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Primary School Secondary
admissions boarding school
from 11-18 years
from 3-11 years

89% of students
achieve A* - B

at A Level

www.ktj.edu.my | [email protected] | 06-7582561
Facebook: Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar | Twitter: KTJ_School

Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, 71700 Mantin, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia



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Contents

Education Destination Malaysia: 26
Guide to International & Private Schools
Why is STEM education so important
2019/20 Edition today? Anthony Ng explains what parents
should know about STEM education and
Managing Editor Michele Lam its key benefits.

Editor Dr. Elaine Morais 36

Director of Business Development Nickie Yew Find a school for your child using
the map here.
Business Development
Marwina Edwin, Nyok Yee Aw Yong, Elaine Kok 58

Writer Letitia Lim What should you look for in a preschool?
Justina Goh shares her top tips on how to
Design Ding Siew Ming choose the right preschool for your child.

Marketing & Web Caron Lai 178

Social Media Letitia Lim Information at a glance. Compare fees
and curricula using the tables in this
Finance Anne Chia section.

Administration Jenny Ng 210

Contributors Is your child interested in studying in the
Sarah Anderson, Janet Brock, Christian Choyce, Sam Fraser, United Kingdom? Henrietta Lightwood
Justina Goh, Dr. Jessica Hale, Jacqueline Harmer, Mark Jones, provides a guide on how to get accepted
Wendy Jones, Heath Kondro, Stefanie Leong, Henrietta Lightwood, into prestigious British universities.
Esther Lim, Anthony Ng, Anthony Petitti, Kelly Robb, Dr. Ben
Schmidt, Roger Schultz, Sadie Visick, Tim Waley

Profiles
Shireen Basheer, Martha Booth, Alex Harkins, Kevin Kam, Bec
Lane, Rachel Lim, Lim Shuwern, Puteri Nurliyana Syamimi bt Mohd
Nizam, Meagan Motha, Tan Jean Ling, Matthew teBogt, Dr. Wong
Siew Chin

Publishers Michele Lam, Nickie Yew

Published by
Mint Communications Sdn Bhd (701835-T)
Suite 14-3A, Level 14, Wisma UOA II, Jalan Pinang,
50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
(+603) 7986 0070
[email protected]

Managed by Mint Media Sdn Bhd (1310937-T)

Printer
Sky Press Sdn Bhd (920029-P)
No. 8 & 10, Jalan PBS 14/10, Taman Perindustrian Bukit Serdang,
43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor

© Mint Communications Sdn Bhd, June 2019
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying and
recording, or stored in a retrieval system of any nature without the
written permission of the copyright holder, application for which should
be addressed to the publishers. The publishers, authors, contributors
and endorsers of this publication each excludes liability for loss suffered
by any person resulting in any way from the use of, or reliance on this
publication.

The information in this publication is accurate at the time of printing.
Please check with individual schools for the latest information.

Photographs of the schools that appear in the publication are provided
by the schools.

6 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Contents

9 Publishers’ Note

CONTENTS

FEATURES TYPES OF 110 Sunway International School
16 Demand for Local International CURRICULA 112 Taylor’s Schools
68 The American Curriculum 114 Tenby Schools
Education Grows 70 The Australian Curriculum 116 Wesley Methodist Schools
72 The British Curriculum
26 What Parents Should Know 74 Cambridge International (International)

About STEM Education Curriculum SCHOOL SHOWCASE
129 A-Z of International Schools
28 What Makes a Good School? 78 The International
32 The Boarding School Experience OTHER LEARNING
Baccalaureate Programme OPPORTUNITIES
ESSENTIAL 190 Help, My Child Has a
INFORMATION 80 The International General
36 Map of All International Schools Learning Disability!
Certificate of Secondary
in Malaysia Education 194 Learning Support for

40 Types of International Schools 82 The International Pupils with Special
Educational Needs
in Malaysia Primary Curriculum
PRE-UNIVERSITY
44 Types of School Fees 84 The Ontario Curriculum AND BEYOND
46 The Scholarship 86 The Oxford Curriculum 198 Choosing the A Level
202 Other Pre-University
Application Process INSIDE THE SCHOOLS
94 Asia Pacific Schools Programmes
48 The International School 96 Beaconhouse Malaysia
98 The British International 210 How To Get Into A Top UK
Application Process
School of Kuala Lumpur University
50 What to Look for During (BSKL)

School Visits 100 Excelsior International School
101 HELP International School
52 International Schools 102 Kingsley International School
103 MAHSA International School
in Malaysia 104 Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar
108 Matrix Global Schools
PRESCHOOL
EDUCATION
58 Choosing a Preschool
63 Types of International

Preschool Curricula

64 The Importance of an

Early Years Education

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 7



Publishers' Note

PUBLISHERS’ NOTE

Welcome to the seventh edition of Education Nickie Yew
Destination Malaysia: Guide to International & Private
Schools (EDM)! Michele Lam

So much effort has gone into updating the guide that
we hope it will help you find the right school for your
child. We have provided information about private
school education from preschool right up to
pre-university to give you deeper insights into the
options available in this country and beyond.

With over 150 international schools in Malaysia today, International schools offer a wide variety of English-
the EDM guidebook has never been more important medium curricula and we have provided information
given the increasing variety of curricula, fees and on curricula to help you decide which curriculum
facilities on offer. is most suited to your child’s needs in the Types of
Curricula section. EDM also offers a comprehensive
In the Features section, read about the demand for list of international schools, profiles of individual
an international school education in the region and schools as well as the international school directory.
what parents should know about STEM education Comparative reference charts in the guide have also
for instance. There is also an article on what makes been updated.
a good school and another on the boarding school
experience. In the Other Learning Opportunities section, read
about the interventions available for children with
Get to know some of the members of the learning disabilities and the learning support offered
international school community through reading the at various international schools.
profiles of teachers, students, alumni and boarders.
These profiles will give you valuable insights from Explore a variety of pre-university programmes in the
different groups of people on the international school section called Pre-university and Beyond. There are
experience. These diverse perspectives will enable also in-depth articles on the A Level and how to get
you to make wise and informed decisions about the into top universities in the UK.
type of school that best suits your child.
Please visit our website
Find out if there is an international school near www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com for the
where you live by viewing the map showing the latest news, information and insights on international
location of all international schools in the country in schools. There you will find all that you need to know
the Essential Information section. This section also in order to identify the right school for your child.
offers an update on the types of international schools
in the country as well as infographics on school If you would like to provide any feedback on this
fees, the enrolment process and other aspects of edition, or need more information about our products
an international school. In addition, we highlight and services, please feel free to email us at
statistics on the number of international schools in [email protected].
the various states of the country.

The section on Preschool Education draws attention If you wish to speak to representatives from
to the kind of teaching and learning children need in various international schools at one location,
the early years as well as what parents need to look please visit the Private & International School
out for when choosing the right preschool for their Fairs which are regularly held in Kuala Lumpur,
child. An infographic also provides an overview of Johor and Penang. For more information on
the different types of preschool curricula available these fairs, please visit www.pisf.asia.
around the world.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 9











Features

FEATURES

This section provides an overview of international schools in
the region and highlights the importance of STEM education.
Experts also share their knowledge on the boarding school
experience and what makes a good school.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 15

Features

DEMAND FOR LOCAL
INTERNATIONAL
EDUCATION GROWS

Sam Fraser, Head of Asia Pacific Research for ISC
Research, provides an update on the demand for
local international education in the region.

Demand for an education that enrolment has grown 61.2% that matched that of their home
is taught in the language of between July 2013 and July 2018; country.
English, and follows international from 60,400 attending the schools
curriculum and exams is growing in 2013 to 97,300 in July 2018, As the international schools
throughout Southeast Asia. None and increasing to over 100,000 for market has evolved, so the
more so than in Malaysia where, the current academic year. schools themselves have
as of this year, there are 280 changed; becoming more global
English-medium international The Changing Face of in their approaches to teaching
schools teaching 100,060 Malaysia’s International and learning, and increasingly
students aged between three and Schools accessible to local families.
18. Demand from Western expatriate
There are more local Malaysian families has decreased in recent
Student enrolment has increased children attending the years due to the impact of the
significantly over the past five international schools throughout low oil and gas price, but demand
years in the country’s international the country than any other from expatriates does still
schools. According to new data nationality. This is despite the continue from Asian expatriate
released by ISC Research for fact that international schools families, particularly those from
its latest Malaysia International were originally established during China and India.
School Market Intelligence Report, the last century for expatriate
families requiring an education

16 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Features

How International School Developments in increased by the government,
Choice is Expanding Southeast Asia meaning that many more local
children will now have access
Most international schools are Throughout the wider region, to an international education.
located on the west peninsula of the choice of international More school growth in Vietnam
Malaysia, with 43 international schools continues to grow and is expected, likely in the mid-price
schools in Kuala Lumpur ISC Research believes there international schools which will be
and many more in locations is excellent potential for more affordable to more local families.
surrounding districts of the city. growth, particularly in Thailand
and Vietnam. Thailand has A new market shift is appearing
The country is experiencing an become a popular location for in Thailand, Malaysia and also
expansion of a mid-price sector British independent schools Singapore right now, where
of English-medium international establishing sister schools in Chinese families are increasingly
schools (which charge between the region. Wellington, Harrow buying second properties in
USD$5,000 and $7,000 annual and Shrewsbury, all extremely places such as Kuala Lumpur,
fees for primary education, prestigious independent schools Bangkok and Singapore to enable
and $7,000-$12,499 for the in the United Kingdom, now have them to educate their children
secondary years). These mid- schools in Thailand. at international schools there.
priced international schools are These families are doing this
particularly popular with local Shrewsbury International School because the international schools
Malaysian families where 65.7% opened a new city campus in these cities are cheaper
of students currently enrolled are in Bangkok for this academic and more accessible than the
Malaysian nationals. There are year. Wellington College also international schools in China.
currently 62 of these mid-price opened a school in Bangkok in In addition, the international
international schools in Malaysia September 2018. Another leading schools in Singapore, Thailand
enrolling over 30,400 students. independent school from Britain,
King’s College Wimbledon, will
International school options for open in Bangkok in 2020.
families living in Malaysia look
set to expand in the near future. In Vietnam, the cap limiting the
ISC Research is aware of 16 number of Vietnamese nationals
new international schools to in international schools has been
open in Malaysia in the next few
years with most of this school
development happening in the
mid-market sector of schools.
In addition, a few independent
school brands from the UK have
announced imminent expansion
to Malaysia including Mount Kelly,
Hurtwood House and Concord
College.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 17

Features

and Malaysia are not regulated as schools (over 80% of them) Japan. The report indicates
heavily as those in China which gained places in higher education various reasons motivating
means Chinese children can around the world. students’ choice of country
access full international education including cost, visa benefits,
from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The report highlights the grade safety of the country, ranking
While the cost and restrictions averages of the three most of the university, and active
on international education in popular qualifications offered promotion by the university to
China remain high, it is likely that by the world’s international students, as well as location
this education mobility trend will schools: A Level, International of the university and quality of
continue. Baccalaureate Diploma education provision.
Programme and Advanced
Research into Student Placement. They suggest The report stresses the need
Pathways from School to significantly higher levels of for students and their college
University academic achievement than counsellors to find a degree
global averages. course and university that
In its latest report into student best suit the student and their
pathways from international University destinations for the individual priorities, rather than
schools to higher education, international school students in aspiring to a high-rank university
ISC Research says that English- 2017-2018 were varied, covering that might not suit them well.
medium international schools all countries where English- This was emphasised by both the
are a fast-growing source of medium degrees are now offered. schools and the universities.
high calibre undergraduates for The most popular countries were
universities. Over 90% of the 2017- the US, UK, Canada, Netherlands, For more information, visit
2018 year grade 12 students of Spain, Australia, Germany and www.iscresearch.com
the vast majority of international

18 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Alumnus Profile

“School has helped me approach all realities with
an open mind and a positive attitude.”

Kevin Kam Malaysia

22 years old
Australian International School Malaysia
2007 - 2014

Qualifications What were your favourite and What was the best thing about
Higher School Certificate least favourite subjects in school, your school? What important
and why? lessons did you learn in your school
Current Job Title/Designation and My favourite subjects were that have helped you in your life?
name of company Mathematics and Physics. I was The best things from school were
Mechanical Design Engineer first motivated by science shows the friends I made who I still keep
Intern at Siemens Healthineers on TV. I was later encouraged by in contact with today. I gained
GmbH. my peers and teachers. On the a higher confidence with the
other hand, my least favourite support of my peers. School has
Tell us about the course/major you subject was English. I liked helped me approach all realities
are pursuing. English but I was not interested with an open mind and a positive
Bachelor’s Degree, Computer in literature. attitude.
Science (Artificial Intelligence) and
Bachelor’s Degree, Mechanical What extracurricular activities did What advice would you give to
Engineering (Honours). you do? current students of your alma
I was involved in THIMUN (The mater?
What is your most memorable Hague International Model United I have always been told to be
experience in school? Nations), World Scholar’s Cup and the best I can be, but that builds
I enjoyed all practical laboratory the track and rugby teams. impressions of one’s self. Have
classes. They always found a way purpose instead of expectations
to make me laugh, panic, smile, and you will worry less.  
and rage in the span of an hour.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 19









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Features

WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW
ABOUT STEM EDUCATION

Anthony Ng, CEO of MITstem International
School, explains the fundamentals and
benefits of STEM education in this article.

STEM is the acronym for Science, STEM literacy among secondary early adolescence, until 15 or 16
Technology, Engineering and school students has declined. years of age (Wijsman, Warrens,
Mathematics. Parents are well- They do not appear to be Saab, Driel, Westenberg, 2015).
aware that STEM subjects are able to meet the Higher Order Such a trend is seen in European
being taught at school, and at Thinking (HOT) Standards of countries as well.
university and that the knowledge the SPM syllabus. Students
and skills acquired are applied have less interest in taking up With advances in robotics,
at the workplace. However, a difficult subjects like Additional machine learning and the Internet
majority of parents have concerns Mathematics, Physics, Computer in the 21st century, competition
about their children’s ability to Science, Design & Technology, and from software robots and remote
study, cope with and excel in ICT due to the higher cognitive workers will be rapid and intense.
STEM subjects at school. demand involved. By 2022, 75 million current job
roles may be displaced by the
In Malaysia, the number of Form Research suggests that student shift in the division of labour
Five (Year 11) students studying performance is related to the between humans, machines and
Science subjects has dropped motivation to learn. As motivation algorithms, while 133 million
at an average of 6,000 per generally declines during lower new job roles may emerge at
year since 2012, and the 2018 secondary education, one might the same time (World Economic
enrolment stood at only 167,962 expect performance to decline Forum, 17 Sept 2018). New and
out of 375,794 (44.7%). Equally as well during this period. expanding occupations include
worrying is that more than 48% Notably, a consistent finding in roles such as Data Analysts,
of Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) research on academic motivation Software and Applications
candidates failed to obtain a is that it tends to decline after Developers and E-commerce
Credit grade of C for Additional the transition from primary and Social Media Specialists –
Mathematics, a prerequisite to to secondary education. This jobs that are significantly based
enroll in STEM undergraduate decline in academic motivation on, and enhanced by, the use
courses (The Star, 21 Oct 2018). occurs most consistently during of technology. However, also

26 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Features

expected to grow are job roles speed trap cameras, and developed when students are
based on distinctively ‘human’ temperature sensors are given the opportunity to solve
traits, such as in the areas some of the lessons which problems with STEM projects.
of Customer Service, Sales relate to actual applications. Classroom activities enable
and Marketing, Training and The usefulness of the lesson them to understand, apply,
Development, People and Culture, will increase the students’ analyse and evaluate what
Organisational Development, as motivation to learn and they learn and in so doing to
well as Innovation. innovate. internalise and remember it
(2) Students get to network and prior to creating solutions for
Surely, we do not want students collaborate with others via projects. Eventually, this will
to miss out on both digital and STEM projects and related lead to the development of
soft-skill jobs and opportunities competitions. The STEM higher order thinking which
which are likely to be available approach will enhance is required by the latest
in 2022. The STEM approach in the students’ social value, secondary school syllabus
teaching and learning will propel collaboration and teamwork (Bloom’s Taxonomy).
children to thrive in both academic skills among their peers. (6) The STEM field of studies
fields in general and in STEM (3) Students get to comprehend may be broadened to include
subjects in particular. The STEM and remember lessons taught Engineering and Digital literacy
approach uses a pedagogical via Hands-on Learning which to develop computational and
strategy that emphasises the activates their ‘senses.’ design thinking. For example,
application of knowledge, skills the use of computer-aided
and values from the disciplines of Some of the STEM lessons are on design (CAD) systems always
Science, Technology, Engineering subjects such as the following: involve the introduction of
and Mathematics, in an integrated • Robotics mathematical concepts. These
manner to help students solve • Embedded Platform - Arduino include interactive graphic
problems encountered in the real techniques, basic graphics,
world. This involves not only a and Raspberry Pi two- and three-dimensional
deep understanding of the subject • Basic Electronics operations, as well as
matter but also the analysis, • IoT – Smart Home Technologies mathematical modeling in
synthesis and evaluation of all • PCB Design and Fabrication relation to geometric modeling.
they have learnt. In fact, the STEM • 2D Computer Aided Design CAD also examines curves and
approach is effective in enhancing • 3D Computer Aided Design surfaces, numerical methods
motivation to learn as well as the • 3D Printing of solving equations and finite
cognitive abilities of students. • Drone piloting element modeling.
• Coding & Programming.
Key Benefits of the STEM In conclusion, the STEM approach
approach in Teaching & (4) A conducive learning will provide a holistic approach
Learning: environment with competent to education which enhances
teachers, additional digital students’ knowledge (Intelligence
(1) Students get to learn STEM and engineering curriculum, Quotient), attitude (Emotional
applied learning lessons laboratories, workshops and Quotient) and skill (Digital
which connect with ‘Real Life equipment are essential to Quotient) all of which are required
Applications & Solutions.’ develop learning with the by future employers.
Creating a traffic light system, STEM approach.

(5) Metacognitive skills are

About MITstem
MITstem International School is a business division under MIT Academy Group of Companies which was
established in 1976. The school is dedicated to igniting students’ passion for STEM education. Our initiatives
are strongly supported by the Ministry of Education, Malaysia, as MITstem supports the STEM Applied Learning
Programme (ALP) for secondary school students. To further enrich students’ learning experiences, our Industrial
Partnership Programme (IPP) creates opportunities for students to get early exposure to the real-world STEM
industries and careers.

We are on a mission to nurture our future Scientists, Technologists, Engineers and Mathematicians for there is a
global shortage of a quality workforce in the STEM industries. For more information, visit www.mitstem.edu.my.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 27

Features

WHAT MAKES
A GOOD SCHOOL?

Janet Brock, Principal of the British
International School of Kuala Lumpur answers
some questions on what makes a good school.

What are the aspects of a past school report and take an How do we determine if a
school to consider when entrance exam. However it does school is good?
choosing and assessing offer EAL (English as an Additional
schools? Language) lessons and provides Whilst results and league tables
support to students with mild are important, whether the
First impressions last learning difficulty needs. students are happy in school
and therefore the initial and want to be there is a better
communication between yourself As well as looking at the indication of whether a school is
and the school is a good indicator academic performance and thriving. For example, at BSKL,
of how it operates and how facilities on offer, it is also a good 95% of parents said their child is
welcoming it is. This includes idea to look at the school’s stance happy, and ultimately happy and
communication received through on behaviour, discipline, safety confident children will do well in
the website (is it informative?) as etc. A good school will take these many areas of school life.
well as over the phone, via emails matters seriously and have a clear
and in person. policy on how they are managed. A good school will employ good
teachers with qualifications
A significantly important aspect Finally, if the school website has and teaching experience from
is whether the school meets a staff directory, it is a good idea well-regarded institutions. This is
your child’s learning needs and to check that the teachers are true at BSKL, who also employs
learning style as every school will qualified with relevant teaching Assistant Teachers with degrees
differ. For example, acceptance qualifications, and what previous and experience in every Year
to The British International teaching experience they have 1-6 class (unique to BSKL). A
School of Kuala Lumpur (BSKL) had. good school will also invest in
requires applicants to provide a their staff. Teachers at BSKL

28 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Features

are engaging and collaborating mental health issues are also first schools to receive COBIS
through Nord Anglia University regularly addressed in PSHE Patron’s Accreditation. It also was
and have access to unique (Personal, Social, Health and graded as ‘excellent’ in all areas of
professional development Environment) lessons. educational provision in the last
opportunities with world-leading ISI report and is fully accredited
programmes. Technology is another part of by the Malaysian Ministry of
modern day life that should be Education.
Most top schools will have state- regularly reviewed in schools. It
of-the-art facilities and resources, is extremely beneficial to learning Any advice for parents
particularly international schools. and many students have regular when choosing a school
BSKL provides students with access to computers and iPads for their child?
exceptional facilities including (including Primary students) but
the latest educational technology, how is the use of technology As previously mentioned, one
indoor sports halls, swimming monitored? Strict safety of the most important things to
pools, football fields, specialist procedures should be in place, consider is whether the child is
music and dance rooms, a 650- as well as how often it is used in happy when they walk through
seat theatre and well-stocked lessons. the door. The way a child smiles
libraries. It is no wonder that 95% says a lot more about the school
of parents rate highly the look and A different perspective to think than conversations with the
feel of the building facilities. about is whether the school Headteacher. Therefore, if you
offers a forward-thinking can, take your children with you on
There is no doubt that a good curriculum. BSKL is proud to a tour as they will get a sense of
school will get good results in provide education for the future, what is right for them.
academia but also in sport, music, enhancing learning through
art and wider extracurricular collaborations with the world’s When you go on a tour of the
activities. They often have high best organisations including school, ensure you see as much
expectations and the students The Juilliard School, MIT and as possible, because if the tour
will be challenged and stretched. UNICEF. Students have access to guide avoids certain areas, you
Students should also develop a wide programme of events and might question what they are
good soft and interpersonal skills, expeditions and the online Global hiding. You should be able to
such as empathy, critical thinking Campus platform connects over speak to staff, students and other
and independence, and a mindset 50,000 students around the world. parents as you walk around and
to thrive in a changing world. not just the Admissions or Senior
How are international Leadership Team.
What are some new schools regulated in
perspectives when it Malaysia? Are inspections Ask yourself questions such as
comes to evaluating done regularly? do the students and staff seem
schools? happy? Do the school leaders give
International schools can off a good vibe? Do the students
With the stresses of modern day opt for inspections through a look engaged in the classrooms?
life, well-being is an important number of organisations such What is the behaviour of the
issue that should be considered as ISI (Independent Schools students like during play and
when evaluating schools. Is it Inspectorate), COBIS (Council of lunch time? Do the displays
planned into the timetable and British International Schools), CIS celebrate achievement of all
does the school have enough (Council of International Schools) areas? Look for positive and
resources to tackle such issues? and Penta International. affirming answers.
BSKL has two professional
counsellors, a full nursing team For example, BSKL is a member For more information,
and a nutritionist onsite, and of COBIS and was one of the visit www.britishschool.edu.my

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 29

Here at MAHSA International School, experts will
start your child on an integrated and comprehensive
educational journey filled with awe and adventure,
with laughter and love, with healthy habits and
lifelong lessons, and with the opportunity of
success through quality education from the
beginning till the end.

There is no better place to prepare your child for At MAHSA International School, the education of
an excellent education than at MAHSA International your child is a matter of the greatest importance.
School.
With full room and board provided as an option,
As leaders in quality tertiary education with a track we are devoted to the provision of a full and
record in medicine, dentistry and the other fulfilling life for your child, with sports and
sciences as well as the arts, we know exactly what health-focused activities and facilities for your
your child needs to excel in a progressively child’s optimum experience in his or her home
competitive world. away from home.

Here at MAHSA International School, trained, Because we love your child as our own, we
experienced and professional teachers provide round-the-clock, technologically
arededicated to the privileged task of informing, advanced security measures and staff, and also
nourishing and moulding your child’s mind. When compassionate and competent in-house nurses
we undertake the responsibility of your child’s for the maximum well-being of your child.
education, we do it with the respect we have for
your child today, and for the person he or she can MAHSA International School - All your child needs
become one day, and this is our promise to you. for a Better Start, and More.

PRESCHOOL (IEYC)
CAMBRIDGE PRIMARY (IPC)
CAMBRIDGE SECONDARY (IGCSE)
DAY CARE
BOARDING

Intakes
Jan, April
& Sept

Curriculum: • Learning : Classrooms, Tutorial Rooms,
Seminar Rooms
Preschool (IEYC)
2 - 5 year olds • Labs : Apple Learning Centers/Computer Labs,
The IEYC is built around four Learning Strands Science Labs
that underpin all learning and development:
• Independence & Interdependence • Studios : Music & Dance
• • Auditorium & Theatre
• Enquiry based • Sports : Tennis, Football, Swimming, Basketball,
• Healthy Living & Well Being
Netball, Futsal, Badminton
5 - 12 year olds •
for a clear process of learning with specific learning • Canteen & Cafe
goals for every subject.
The Cambridge IGCSE
13 - 16 year olds

Encouraging learners to engage with a variety of
is fundamental to our approach.

Jalan SP 2, Bandar Saujana Putra, 41200 Jenj6a00r-9o/1m/1/1,27Selangor.

www.miskl.edu.my 03-5614 2333

Features

THE BOARDING
SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

Christian Choyce, Director of Boarding at
Raffles American School (RAS) in Johor,
answers some questions on boarding.

There are several types Describe the schedule of dinner at 6:00 p.m. followed by
of boarding. What do a typical boarder. academic study at the boarding
weekly, termly and yearly house from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Bed
boarding involve? Our students wake up each day at time ranges from 9:00 p.m. until
6:30 a.m., shower and get ready 11:00 p.m. depending on age,
Weekly – ‘Weekly’ boarding for school. When the students after which Wi-Fi is shut off and
students go home every Friday are ready, there will be a room resident advisors ensure students
and return on Sunday evening. inspection where our resident are in bed and lights are out.
Termly – ‘Termly’ students stay advisors will check to ensure their
in the boarding houses during rooms are tidy. After that, we will What are the three main
the school year and go home have breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Our advantages of a boarding
during our fall, winter, spring, and school day then starts at 7:50 a.m. school education?
summer breaks. and finishes at 3:00 p.m. After
Yearly –‘Yearly’ students stay with school, boarding students are 1) Accountability – Boarding
local hosts during small holidays required to attend co-curricular students learn that every
and only go home at the end of programmes until 5:00 p.m. In the action has a reaction and take
school year during summer break. evenings, boarding students have

32 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Features

responsibility for their decisions achievement is balanced with What can students do
and actions. the holistic development of their to make the best of
child. Additionally, parents need their boarding school
2) Independence – Boarding to understand and support the experience?
students develop the ability to philosophy of boarding and be
make their own decisions and prepared to work together with Dive right in. Take advantage
take ownership of their future. the residential staff members of of all the help available from
the boarding programme for the experienced staff members from
3) Fun – a very important benefit of their child. academics to sports. Put yourself
aspect of boarding is to have out there. Chances are that other
fun! A balance of work and play At what age should a students are also shy and are just
is an important foundation for child start boarding? waiting for someone to speak out.
adulthood, and at RAS Boarding Go on all the excursions and make
we believe that it is important This all depends on the parents friends. Being an international
for students to be allowed and what age the school offers school, we have a diverse student
to be young and enjoy their boarding from. The decision also body with dozens of different
adolescence, while maintaining involves what the parents want countries represented. A big part
responsibility for important life for their child as both junior and of the boarding experience is to
tasks and academics. senior boarding programmes learn from each other’s cultures,
differ according to age. Senior and embrace the opportunity to
Is boarding for boarding is more focused on learn from others.
everyone? What are independence and accountability
the considerations for while junior boarding develops Are boarding schools in
parents and students who the emotional and physical Malaysia inspected? How
are thinking of attending a milestones. are boarding schools
boarding school? checked and regulated?
How can students
Boarding school is not for prepare themselves Yes, boarding schools in Malaysia
everyone. Students need to want for a boarding school are inspected and regulated by
to be at boarding in order to reap education? their accrediting organisation.
all the benefits. While there is Currently, we are inspected and
usually a period of adjustment Students should have a daily accredited by WASC (Western
for all students, it is imperative regimen. They should practise Association of Schools and
that students and parents have a getting up at the same time Colleges). RAS is also part of
positive mindset. Parents need to every day and make time for their EARCOS (The East Asia Regional
be sure they will be comfortable studies every evening. A student Council of Schools), through
seeing their children less should believe in the benefits of which we have a sub-committee
frequently than if they were living boarding before attending, this of schools that liaise with each
at home and that they want their way there is a goal for the student other on best practices for
children to follow a structured to visualise. And, of course, be boarding schools.
programme where academic prepared to be part of a very big
family! For more information, visit www.
raffles-american-school.edu.my

Boarding at Raffles American School
After two years serving day students, Raffles American School identified a need to offer residential care to
boarders from across the region. The goal was to offer a programme that linked academics, co-curricular activities
and life skills; one that would ultimately help students to live, learn and play while attending school. The Raffles
American School Boarding programme officially began in August 2017 with 15 boarding students and has grown
to over 70 boarding students. For the upcoming 2019 - 2020 school year starting in August 2019 we expect the
RAS Boarding programme to serve over 100 students.

The Raffles American School boarding programme includes two interlinked programmes: Junior Boarding, which
serves students from 8-12 years of age and Senior Boarding, which serves students from 13-18 years of age. Both
programmes offer weekly, termly and yearly boarding.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 33



Essential Information

ESSENTIAL INFO

This section provides important information on international
schools in Malaysia. There is a map showing the location of all
international schools in the country, and infographics on what to
look for during school visits, steps to take for the application and
enrolment process, school fees and scholarships. Learn about
the different types of international schools in Malaysia and read
important statistics.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 35

Essential Information

MAP OF INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOLS IN MALAYSIA

INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOLS IN
MALAYSIA*

*Map shows approximate location. For the exact 1 Abedeen International School
location of schools, please use the School Finder 2 Acmar International School
function on www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com 3 AiU International School
4&5 Alnoor International School
36 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com 6&7 Alice Smith School
8 Asia Metropolitan International School
9 Asia Pacific Schools
10 Austin Heights Private &
International Schools
11 Australian International School Malaysia
12 Baseerah International School
13 & 14 Beaconhouse Schools
15 Borneo International School
16 Brainy Bunch International School
17 Brighton International School
18 The British International School of
Kuala Lumpur
19 Campus Rangers International School
20 & 21 Cempaka Schools
22 Charis International School
23 City Harbour International School
24 Crescendo-HELP International School
25 Dalat International School
26 Dwi Emas International School
27 Eagles Grammar International School
28 Eaton International School
29 Ekhlass International School
30 & 31 elc International School
32 Epsom College in Malaysia
33 EtonHouse International School Malaysia
34 Excelsior International School

Essential Information

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN MALAYSIA*

35 - 39 Fairview International School 108 Sayfol International School, Kuala Lumpur
40 Garden International School 109 Sekolah Antarabangsa Matahari
41 & 42 GEMS International School 110 Seri Omega Private & International School
43 Global Indian International School 111 Seven Skies International School
44 Global Modern International School 112 Shattuck-St Mary’s Forest City International School
45 & 46 Greenview Islamic International School 113 & 114 Spectrum International Islamic School
47 Havil International School 115 Sri Ara International & Private School (Sri Ara Schools)
48 HELP International School 116 Sri Bestari Schools
49 Hibiscus International School 117 Sri Dasmesh International School
50 Highlands International Boarding School 118 Sri Emas International School
51 & 52 Hua Xia International School 119 Sri KDU Schools
53 Idrissi International School 120 Sri Kuala Lumpur International School
54 IGB International School 121 Sri Sempurna International School
55 Inspiros International School 122 - 124 Sri Utama Schools
56 & 57 International Islamic School Malaysia 125 St. Christopher’s International Primary School
58 International Modern Arabic School 126 St. John’s International School
59 International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) 127 St. Joseph International School Kuching
60 International School of Kuantan 128 St. Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia
61 The International School @ ParkCity 129 Stella Maris International School
62 The International School of Penang (Uplands) 130 Stonyhurst Penang International School
63 Jesselton International School 131 & 132 Straits International School
64 Kelantan International School 133 & 134 Sunway International School
65 Kinabalu International School 135 Tanarata International School
66 King Henry VIII College 136 & 137 Taylor’s International School
67 Kingsgate International School 138 Templer Park International School
68 Kingsley International School 139 - 145 Tenby Schools
69 Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar 146 Tunku Putra-HELP International School
70 Labuan International School 147 & 148 UCSI International School
71 Lodge International School 149 United International School
72 Lycée Français Kuala Lumpur 150 UniWorld International School
(French School of Kuala Lumpur) 151 UUM International School
73 MAHSA International School 152 UUM International School Melaka
74 Malacca Expatriate School 153 Victoria International School
75 Marefat International School 154 Vikas International School
76 Marlborough College Malaysia 155 Vision International School
77 Matrix Global Schools 156 Wadi Sofia Schools
78 & 79 MAZ International School 157 - 162 Wesley Methodist Schools
80 Melaka International School 163 Westlake International School
81 MITstem International School 164 Woodlands International School
82 Mont’ Kiara International School 165 Zenith International School
83 Mutiara International Grammar School
84 Nexus International School
85 Nilai International School
86 Nobel International School
87 Oakbridge International School
88 Oakrich International School
89 Oasis International School - Kuala Lumpur
90 Orbix International School
91 Paragon Private & International School
92 Pelita International School
93 Peninsula International School Australia
94 Pine Hills International School
95 & 96 Prince of Wales Island International School
97 - 99 R.E.A.L Schools
100 & 101 Rafflesia International & Private Schools
102 Raffles American School
103 - 107 Regent International School

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 37

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Pupils are taught a British curriculum from British educators who know the value of heritage and tradition. For over
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• Non profit school • British independent day and boarding school
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Visit: w w w.m a r l b o r o u g h c o l l e g e .m y for details of our forthcoming Admissions events



Essential Information

TYPES OF INTERNATIONAL
SCHOOLS IN MALAYSIA

Letitia Lim highlights the main differences between the various
types of international schools available in Malaysia today.

The private and international schools include Alice Smith Purpose-built New
education landscape in Malaysia School, Garden International Schools
has changed over the last decade School, The International School
with parents now having more of Penang (Uplands) and The In recent years, many purpose-
options for an international school International School of Kuala built international schools
education for their children. There Lumpur (ISKL). These schools were established to meet the
are over 150 schools that offer were considered international not growing demand for international
curricula other than the Malaysian only because they used curricula education in the country. Newly
curriculum and more schools are different from that in use in public established purpose-built schools
being added to this category each schools in the country, but also in the Klang Valley include
year. Each of these international because they represented a truly Kingsgate International School
schools is independently run and global community. and Oasis International School -
differs from one another in terms Kuala Lumpur.
of background, curricula, ethos There were few Malaysian
and learning environment. children enrolled in these schools In addition, mega property
in the early days as permission developers such as the Sunway
Here are the various types of from the Ministry of Education Group Malaysia have set up
international schools that are was required then. Since the Sunway International School
available in Malaysia today. removal of the quota of local in Sunway City, Selangor, and
student enrolment in international Sunway Iskandar, Johor. Many
Established International schools in 2012, many more international schools were also
Schools for Expatriate Malaysian students have gained established by education groups
Children entry into these established such as Taylor’s Education Group
international schools. These (Australian International School
Traditionally, international schools schools continue to attract Malaysia, Garden International
were established to meet the children of expatriates working School, Nexus International School
educational needs of children of in the country as well as local and Taylor’s International School),
expatriates working in Malaysia or children. HELP International Corporation
in the region. These international (HELP International School), GEMS

40 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Essential Information

Education (GEMS International
School Pearl City & GEMS
International School Tropicana
Metropark) and Kingsley
EduGroup (Kingsley International
School).

There is a wide range of such to create independent students (International) has branches in
schools in Malaysia today. Some who are prepared to tackle the Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur and Penang,
schools charge higher fees while challenges of university life. and St. Joseph’s Institution
others are more affordable. International School Malaysia is
The ratio of local to expatriate English-medium a brother school of St. Joseph’s
teaching staff also varies from Private Schools Institution and SJI International in
school to school. In addition, these Singapore.
schools differ in terms of facilities There has also been a rise in the
offered – some schools are only number of English-medium private Private Learning Centres
equipped with basic facilities schools in Malaysia offering Offering International
while others have more extensive international curricula. Many Curricula
facilities. Some schools provide of these schools started off by
more options to students in terms offering the Malaysian curriculum In the Klang Valley, there is a large
of extracurricular activities, while to local students. As the demand number of privately run centres
others have a limited number of for international education grew, offering academic preparation for
options. a number of private schools international qualifications such
added an international curriculum as the IGCSE. The curriculum at
British Boarding Schools option. Some private schools these centres commonly follows
have also ceased offering the the British Curriculum and the
A number of British boarding national curriculum altogether, Cambridge Curriculum. These
schools have established focusing only on the international centres differ from international
branches in Malaysia. These curriculum. schools in terms of fees, dress
include Epsom College in code, timetable and facilities,
Malaysia, Marlborough College The popular curricula offered among others. Several of these
Malaysia and King Henry VIII at these private schools are the centres have applied for an
College (a sibling school of British Curriculum and Cambridge international school licence as
Christ College). King Henry VIII Curriculum leading up to the well.
College opened in September International General Certificate
2018. Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, which of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Parents are encouraged to
was established by the Negeri examinations. Examples of these do their research early and
Sembilan royal family in 1991, private schools are the Sri KDU thoroughly before deciding
offers a British boarding school Schools, Rafflesia International & on an international school for
inspired education for both local Private Schools, R.E.A.L Schools, their child. When choosing a
and expatriate students. Acmar Schools and Asia Pacific school they should take into
Schools among others. account important factors such
Many of these boarding schools as location, fee structure and
have the option of day boarding, Mission Schools teaching credentials. As schools
flexi-boarding and full-boarding differ widely, it is important to visit
to cater to each student’s There are also a few mission schools and attend Open Days to
needs. British boarding schools schools in the country that have get a more comprehensive picture
are known for their focus on expanded into international of what a school has to offer.
academic excellence, top-notch education such as the Wesley Parents can visit school facilities,
school facilities and emphasis on Methodist School (International) classrooms and ask the school
extracurricular activities. A British and St. Joseph’s Institution staff any questions they might
boarding school education aims International School Malaysia. have.
Wesley Methodist School

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 41

Boarder Profile

“Boarding has given me the opportunity to become
a lot more independent and has also given me the

opportunity to hold positions of leadership…”

Alex Harkins England

18 years old
Year 13
Marlborough College Malaysia

Describe yourself in three words. What do you miss most about not passions due to all of the extra
Ambitious, level-headed, kind. staying at home? sessions available and all the
The thing I miss the most when extra help.
When did you start boarding? How I am not at home is my family
long have you been a boarder? yet I miss them without feeling Would you encourage other
I started boarding at the beginning homesick as you have 40 other students to be boarders as well?
of my final year of school and girls who are your extended Why?
have been a boarder for six family. I would encourage other students
months. to board as boarding has been
Tell us your most memorable crucial in the development of
What do you like most about boarding school incident! my confidence by allowing me
boarding? The most memorable boarding to pursue my passions in a
Being a boarder has allowed me incident is a regular termly supportive and safe environment.
to take part in more co-curricular tradition where all of the boarding I also think that Boarding is
activities than ever before, houses take part in the beagle incredibly fun, you get to be
without sacrificing any of my hash. We all run through the together with your friends all
academic progress. In a week I jungle together in our house the time and there is always an
am able to participate in musical swipes with our friends and then activity on offer so you are never
activities such as Orchestra, eat supper all together afterwards. bored. One thing I also believe is
sporting activities and even public a huge benefit is the amount of
speaking. Even more so I love the What opportunities has boarding pastoral support you receive, for
lifelong friendships you form with given you that you would not have example, help with academic work
the girls in your Boarding house had otherwise? and university applications.
- each individual becomes like an Boarding has given me the
extra sister. opportunity to become a lot What do you hope to do when you
more independent and has also finish school?
What do you like least about given me the opportunity to hold Throughout my time at
boarding? positions of leadership, which I Marlborough I have developed a
The thing I like the least about have really enjoyed. Boarding has passion for sports science and
boarding is occasionally there is allowed me to get to know more I hope to go on to study Sports
a lack of quiet time as there are people and learn so much about Science at Bath University in the
always so many activities going different cultures. It has also really UK and then to work as a sports
on. helped me to pursue my sporting physiologist.  

42 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com

Boarder Profile

“I would definitely encourage older students to
board if possible because it prepares you very well

for life at university…”

Tan Jean Ling Malaysia

18 years old
Year 13
Epsom College in Malaysia

Describe yourself in three words. Tell us your most memorable Would you encourage other
Independent, logical and boarding school incident! students to be boarders as well?
thoughtful. Last year we had House Why?
Basketball right before the I would definitely encourage older
When did you start boarding? How Christmas dinner so everyone students to board if possible
long have you been a boarder? was rushing to get ready after because it prepares you very well
I started boarding in September their games. Luckily Sixth Formers for life at university especially if
2017, so I’ve been boarding for have their own bathroom so you’re going overseas to study.
slightly more than a year now. my friends and I did not have to
rush to shower, but it was quite What do you hope to do when you
What do you like most about amusing to see the younger girls finish school?
boarding? clamouring for a bathroom stall in I hope to be working in healthcare
You spend a lot of time with your the common shower! and spending time to pursue my
housemates so this allows you passions.  
to forge really strong bonds with What opportunities has boarding
them. given you that you would not have
had otherwise?
What do you like least about Getting to know people in such a
boarding? deep way throughout such a short
Having to leave my parents and period of time.
my dogs back at home!

What do you miss most about not
staying at home?
All the food.

EDUCATION DESTINATION MALAYSIA: Guide to International & Private Schools 43

Essential Information

44 www.EducationDestinationMalaysia.com