Recent news from the Malay Mail revealed a concerning trend for Malaysian higher education. In the latest Center for World University Rankings (CWUR) Global 2000, two-thirds of Malaysian universities saw their rankings drop, with limited research funding and weakened performance cited as key reasons. While Universiti Malaya (UM) remains the nation’s top performer, its fall by 12 spots to 411th reflects broader challenges faced by local institutions.
For ambitious Malaysian students who want a high-quality education with global value, this trend is a wake-up call — and also an opportunity to explore better alternatives abroad.
One destination that stands out in 2025: Japan.
Japan: Where Innovation Meets Opportunity
Japan is increasingly recognized as one of the world’s most dynamic destinations for international students — and for good reason:
1. World-Class Education and Rising Global Rankings
Unlike Malaysia, where higher education is facing funding challenges, Japan continues to make strong investments in its universities and research institutions. This commitment is reflected in the consistent rise of Japanese universities in global rankings. With cutting-edge facilities, highly qualified faculty, and a strong focus on innovation, Japan offers an academic environment that rivals the best in the world. For Malaysian students, this means access to high-quality education that is both internationally respected and cost-effective compared to Western countries.
3. High Employability and Career Opportunities
CWUR rankings evaluate universities based on employability, and Japan excels in this area. With its advanced economy, cutting-edge industries (like robotics, AI, and automotive technology), and a global reputation for excellence, a Japanese degree opens doors to international job markets — including within Japan itself, which actively seeks skilled foreign graduates to join its workforce.
4. Safe, Clean, and Culturally Rich Environment
Japan offers one of the safest and most organized living environments in the world — an ideal place for students to focus on their studies. The blend of tradition and innovation provides a culturally enriching experience that goes beyond the classroom.
5. Proximity and Cultural Affinity
As fellow Asians, Malaysians often find it easier to adapt to life in Japan compared to Western countries. From halal food availability to community support and cultural similarities, Japan offers a welcoming environment for Malaysian students.
The Time to Act Is Now
With Malaysian universities facing ongoing funding and performance issues, 2025 is the perfect time to consider Japan for your higher education journey. As the global academic landscape becomes more competitive, choosing a country that is investing in the future — and in students like you — is more important than ever. You can learn more about the application process here.
At DEOW Japan, we specialize in helping Malaysian students find the perfect university or college in Japan. Whether you’re interested in technology, design, language, or business, we’re here to guide you every step of the way — from school selection to visa application and settling into life in Japan.