Kuala Lumpur:Malaysia is aiming to draw approximately 250,000 international students by the year 2030, enhancing its appeal as a leading higher education hub by targeting a wide range of source countries.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir announced that currently, about 170,000 international students from 180 countries are studying in Malaysia. He emphasized that a diverse student body from various countries positions Malaysia as a desirable study destination.

Dr. Zambry highlighted that the influx of international students is expected to contribute at least RM16 billion annually to the national economy. This projection does not include the additional income generated through related economic activities benefiting local businesses.

In terms of graduate monitoring, Dr. Zambry mentioned that the Higher Education Ministry uses the MyMOHES system to track the employment progress of graduates over a three-year period, allowing regular assessments of their status and development.

Regarding the iFUTURE programme, Dr. Zambry stated that it will continue as a key initiative by the Ministry of Higher Education to nurture leadership skills among both local and international university students. He noted that participants gain valuable opportunities to engage with national leaders, enhancing their leadership abilities and fostering a global perspective.

The iFUTURE 2026 summit, which ran from October 11 to 13 under the theme 'Redefining Future Leaders Through Value-Based Leadership,' brought together 1,231 students, including 813 Malaysians and 418 international students from 60 countries. The event was organized by the ministry through the Higher Education Department, in collaboration with Yayasan Perkasa Siswa and Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah.