Malaysia has emerged as a popular destination for international students looking to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. The country offers topnotch mba in malaysia programs at significantly lower costs compared to Western countries. Malaysia’s student-friendly visa policies, strategic Asia-Pacific location, and thriving economy further add to its strong appeal for MBA aspirants worldwide.
This comprehensive guide provides key insights into the education system, business opportunities, and overall benefits of undertaking an MBA in Malaysia. We highlight the best MBA programs in Malaysia, cost of education, scholarship availability, and career prospects to help you make an informed decision.
Why Pursue an MBA in Malaysia?
Malaysia boasts internationally recognized business schools, affordable fees, and strong student support systems that attract over 130,000 international students annually. Here are some of the top reasons to consider an MBA in Malaysia:
Affordable, Globally Recognized MBA
- An MBA in Malaysia costs one-fifth of what you would pay for a similar degree in the USA or Europe. Total program fees range from 25,000 MYR ($6,000) to 250,000 MYR ($60,000) depending on the school.
- The best Malaysian universities offering MBAs like the University of Malaya, Sunway University, and INSEAD Asia campus are globally ranked and accredited. Their degrees are nationally recognized and accepted worldwide.
Diversity in Program Choice & Specializations
- Full-time MBA, part-time MBA, executive MBA, and online MBA programs are offered to fulfill diverse study requirements.
- The leading universities facilitate MBA specializations in areas like finance, marketing, healthcare, and entrepreneurship through elective courses, internships, and industry collaboration.
Global Business Hub with Immense Opportunities
- Malaysia is among Asia’s top emerging economies and business hubs. International companies have regional HQs in the country, facilitating networking and internships.
- The cultural diversity and English proficiency provide an enriching educational environment for international and local students.
Flexible Immigration System for MBA Students
- Malaysia has a visa-friendly system with simple requirements for student visas. The official processing time is four weeks with high approval odds.
- Graduates can apply for an employment pass to work in Malaysia for several years after completing their MBA program.
Which are the Best MBA Programs in Malaysia?
Malaysia is home to several business schools offering quality full-time, part-time and online MBA programs. The best business schools in Malaysia are:
1. University of Malaya Business School (UMBS)
UMBS tops the list of the best MBA schools in Malaysia due to several noteworthy strengths:
- Consistently ranks in the TOP 300 globally. According to QS World Rankings 2022, UMBS is placed 277th.
- First Malaysian university to be accredited by AACSB. Also has AMBA and EQUIS accreditations.
- The one-year full-time MBA covers topics like leadership, services marketing, financial management, entrepreneurship, etc.
- Strong industry connections with over 30 corporate partners for student internships.
- 90% employment rate for MBA graduates within 6 months of completing the program.
- Total program fees for international students is 65,000 MYR.
- Notable alumni include former Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
2. Sunway University Business School
Key highlights of the Sunway University Business School:
- Triple Crown accreditation by AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.
- Part-time MBA allows working professionals to study while retaining their jobs.
- Customizable through electives in areas like financial technology, data analytics, cybersecurity, etc.
- Diverse cohort with students from over 15 countries.
- Chance to study abroad for a semester at partner universities.
- Total MBA fees is 128,000 MYR for the entire program.
3. INSEAD (Asia Campus)
INSEAD’s Asia campus based in Singapore partners with UUM Malaysia for student exchange:
- One of only 6 business schools worldwide to have triple accreditation.
- 1-year full-time MBA program focused on business administration and leadership.
- Strong alumni network with over 62,000 INSEAD graduates working globally.
- Partners with UUM Malaysia for credit transfers and student exchanges.
- Access to online courses from INSEAD’s campuses across Europe and Middle East.
- Total tuition fees are 118,000 EUR.
4. HELP University
HELP University has a globally recognized MBA program:
- Triple accreditation – AMBA, AACSB and IACBE.
- 2-year part-time Executive MBA designed for working professionals. Held during weekends.
- Specializations offered in areas like marketing, *finance, and entrepreneurship.
- Choice to complete 1 semester abroad at partner universities in Australia or USA.
- Access to over 400 experts from the industry for mentorship and career growth.
Cost of Pursuing an MBA in Malaysia
The cost of pursuing an MBA in Malaysia is quite affordable at approximately 180,000 to 250,000 MYR ($42,000 to $60,000 USD).
Here’s a breakdown of the average MBA cost in Malaysia.
Program Tuition Fees
- Full-time MBA: 45,000 to 250,000 MYR
- Part-time/Distance MBA:15,000 to 100,000 MYR
- Executive MBA: 95,000 to 300,000 MYR
- Online MBA: 10,000 to 150,000 MYR
Living Costs in Malaysia
- Accommodation – 6,000 to 12,000 MYR annually
- Food – 4,800 to 7,200 MYR annually
- Books & Supplies – 2,500 MYR annually
- Health insurance – 1,000 MYR annually
- Transport & Misc. – 3,600 MYR annually
So you need around 18,000 MYR or $4,200 USD annually towards living costs.
Return on Investment
The return on investment in an MBA in Malaysia is fairly quick. Average MBA graduate salaries range from 65,000 MYR to 150,000 MYR ($15,300 to $35,400 USD).
You recover your total investment of 180,000 to 250,000 MYR ($40,000 to $60,000 USD) within 2 to 4 years after completing your MBA program.
Scholarships for International MBA Students in Malaysia
The Malaysian government and many business schools offer scholarships and financial aid to outstanding local and international MBA applicants.
Some popular scholarship providers for international students include:
- EduLanka Global Scholarship – 100% tuition fee coverage + monthly allowance
- ASEAN Scholarship – full tuition fee + accommodation + living allowance + insurance
- Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) – 100% tuition fee coverage for MBA + allowance of 700 MYR per month
- Scholarships offered by MBA schools in Malaysia like UMBS, UKM School of Business, etc.
So while the MBA cost seems high at first, scholarships can make quality business education accessible even with a limited budget.
Entry Requirements to Apply for MBA Programs in Malaysia
Admission into top MBA programs in Malaysia typically involve the following basic requirements:
1. Bachelor’s Degree
A recognized undergraduate degree preferably with 2+ years work experience. Some schools accept applicants with only 1 year work experience.
2. English Proficiency Test Scores
Accepted tests are IELTS, TOEFL or PTE Academic. The minimum test score required is usually:
- IELTS : 6.0 to 7.0
- TOEFL : 550 to 100
- PTE : 50 to 65
3. GMAT Test Score
Leading schools accept good GMAT scores in lieu of work experience. The minimum GMAT score required ranges from 550 to 730.
Some MBA programs also conduct admission interviews, essays, recommendations and consider awards/certifications.
Career Prospects after MBA in Malaysia
Gaining an MBA qualification from Malaysia opens doors to bright career opportunities across diverse roles and sectors within Asia.
According to QS TopMBA surveys, popular industries MBA graduates venture into include:
- Consulting (23%)
- Manufacturing & Engineering (15%)
- Technology & Telecommunications (13%)
- Financial Services/Banking (9%)
- Education (8%)
- FMCG/Consumer goods (8%)
- Healthcare/Pharma (5%)
Common career paths pursued by MBA holders are:
- Business/Management Consultant
- Marketing Manager
- Business Analyst
- Product Manager
- Business Development Manager
- Project Manager
The table below outlines the average MBA salaries in Malaysia across experience levels:
| Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level | 42,000 – 60,000 MYR p.a. ($10,700 USD) |
| Mid-career | 85,000 – 150,000 MYR p.a. ($20,000 to $35,400 USD) |
| Senior-level | 140,000 – 250,000+ MYR p.a. ($32,600 to $60,000+ USD) |
So an MBA degree leads to a substantial boost in your earning potential. Mid-senior level salaries allow you to recover your return on investment fairly fast.
Trends Driving MBA Admissions in Malaysia
Malaysia aims to have 200,000 international students by 2025. MBA applications are rising driven by globalization, online learning options, and strong job demand.
Here are the key trends influencing MBA admissions in Malaysia:
Increased MBA Degree Applications Due to Globalization
- Malaysia attracts candidates from neighboring countries like Indonesia, China, Vietnam, etc. given its proximity and cultural similarities.
- The country is strengthening academic ties and student exchange programs with universities across Asia, Europe, Australia and North America.
- Transnational companies have regional headquarters in Malaysia leading to a vibrant job market for MBA talent.
Surge in Online MBA Program Enrollment
- The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of distance learning MBA programs in Malaysia.
- Leading universities like Asia e University and OUM offer flexible online MBAs at lower fees attracting employees from full-time work.
- Blended learning via online and on-campus coursework is emerging as a popular choice.
High Job Growth Driving MBA Applications
- Malaysia expects average GDP growth rate of 4.5% from 2023 to 2027 as per the IMF, indicating a healthy job market.
- Industries like digital technology, e-commerce, professional services are undergoing rapid development.
- MBA qualifications relevant to high-demand sectors boost employability. Corporations also sponsor employees for MBAs as investments into leadership talent.
So Malaysia provides the full package – affordable fees, global credentials, work opportunities, diversity and modern economy – for a fulfilling MBA experience.
5 Tips for MBA Success in Malaysia
Here are 5 handy tips to guide you towards MBA success in Malaysia:
1) Research schools’ specializations – Choose an MBA aligned with your long-term career ambitions.
2) Apply early – Leverage early application deadlines with less competition.
3) Learn basic Bahasa Malaysia – Knowing basic phrases builds cultural rapport.
4) Intern with multinationals – Provides international exposure.
5) Join business competitions – Boosts practical learning and networking.
By making well-informed choices, being proactive with academics & career development and embracing Malaysian culture, your MBA journey shall reap rich rewards.
FAQs about MBA in Malaysia
Q1. Which are the cheapest MBA universities in Malaysia?
Some affordable yet high-quality options for MBA studies include Asia Pacific University, University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), University Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) and Multimedia University with total fees ranging from 50,000 MYR to 100,000 MYR.
Q2. How long does it take to complete an MBA in Malaysia?
The normal MBA program duration is 1 to 2 years:
- Full-time MBA – 12 to 18 months
- Part-time MBA – 2 to 3 years
- Executive MBA – 18 to 24 months
- Online MBA – 1 to 2 years
So the fastest route is a 12 to 18 months full-time MBA.
Q3. What GMAT score is required for MBA in Malaysia?
The average GMAT score requirement is 550 to 650 at leading Malaysian business schools. INSEAD and some top-tier schools expect higher GMAT scores of 700+. A few institutes may accept minimum scores of 450 to 550.
Q4. Can international students work while/after an MBA in Malaysia?
Yes, international MBA students on a student visa can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during their program. After completing the MBA, graduates can apply for employment passes enabling them to work full-time in Malaysia for up to 5 years based on contract renewals.
Q5. Does doing an MBA in Malaysia allow PR pathways?
Yes, Malaysia facilitates permanent residency (PR) pathways for highly skilled MBA professionals working with regional companies. Once you complete the MBA, acquiring 2+ years work experience boosts chances for Malaysian PR via schemes like Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) and Residence Pass Talent (RP-T).
Key Takeaways
- Malaysia is an affordable MBA destination with fees 5 times lower than Western countries
- Numerous specialized MBA programs with practical focus are on offer
- Scholarships, career support services and global accreditation ensure strong ROI
- Strategic location provides immense job and business startup opportunities
- Student-friendly visa policies, cultural diversity and economic growth attract MBA candidates
So Malaysia certainly ticks all boxes for an enriching and value-for-money MBA experience!