Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of Malaysian students in West Asian countries amid the escalating security concerns in the region. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir stated that MOHE is in constant consultation with the Foreign Ministry to navigate the evolving situation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MOHE has acknowledged the recent developments, including the United States' advisory for its citizens to vacate the region. Zambry emphasized that MOHE will adopt all necessary precautionary measures to safeguard Malaysian students. The ministry is utilizing Wisma Putra (Foreign Ministry) as its crucial reference point to ensure the students' movements and welfare are rigorously monitored.
The minister highlighted the unpredictable nature of the crisis involving Iran, noting that U.S. foreign policy is subject to rapid changes. He assured that MOHE is committed to monitoring the whereabouts and safety of Malaysian students in West Asia and will respond promptly to any changes in the situation. This declaration came during the closing ceremony of the International Charisma Programme: Malaysia MADANI Nationhood 2026.
Furthermore, Zambry mentioned that 456 Malaysian students preparing to study in Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco had participated in the International Charisma Programme. The programme, organized by MOHE in collaboration with the Malaysia Nationhood Academy (AKM), aims to equip students with essential briefings and guidance while ensuring their welfare.
He noted that MOHE has not received any reports indicating a threat to Malaysian students in Egypt, Jordan, or Morocco. However, the ministry remains vigilant and prepared to act swiftly should the situation change. Education Malaysia offices in Egypt and Jordan are on standby, while coordination for students in Morocco is managed through the Egypt office.
Highlighting the number of Malaysian students in the Middle East, Zambry stated that there are thousands in Egypt, with Jordan hosting between 1,000 to 2,000 Malaysian students. Although the number in Morocco is currently smaller, it is gradually increasing. Malaysian students in Egypt are pursuing various fields, including Islamic studies, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other professional disciplines critical to Malaysia.
In his speech, Zambry described Malaysian students abroad as strategic national assets, expressing hope that they would bring back their knowledge and expertise to aid Malaysia's development. He urged students to focus on personal and moral development alongside academic achievement.
Additionally, Zambry highlighted Malaysia's growing reputation as a higher education destination, attracting students from approximately 180 countries, demonstrating the global community's trust in the quality of Malaysia's educational institutions.