KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 — The number of Malaysians pursuing graduate studies in Taiwan has doubled in last four years as a result of relaxed education and labour policies in both countries, China Post reported today.
Citing Taiwan’s Education Ministry’s latest statistics, the news portal reported that Malaysians make up the country largest number of foreign student at 10,374, up from 5,248 in 2010.
The report stated that the surge is attributed to the loosening of regulations by Malaysians authorities in recognising certificates and diplomas issued by the institutions in Taiwan.
Similarly, Taiwan has also relaxed restrictions on foreign students working in the country after graduation, noted the report.
This includes a waiver on the requirement for work experience and the lowering of the minimum wage earned, which has been an encouraging incentive, it added.
The statistics were disclosed at the Taiwan-Malaysia Education Higher Education Forum held at Feng Chia University in Taichung on December 18.
According to China Post, the inaugural forum was attended by more than 200 education officials from both countries.
In July, citing a research carried out by HSBC, The Star reported that Taiwan was among the most affordable countries for students vying to pursue graduate studies.
It was reported that tuition fees in Taiwan averaged at US$3,270 (RM10,391) per annum, while cost of living for international students was estimated at US$4,987.
