Overview:
Malaysia has a distinguished history in medical education, dating back to the establishment of Singapore's first medical school in 1905. Following Malaysia's independence, the Faculty of Medicine was established at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur in 1963. Currently, there are 32 public and private medical schools in Malaysia, as listed by WDOMS, all offering a 5-year undergraduate program. Some private institutions have extended their reach globally through twinning or credit-transfer programs.
All medical schools in Malaysia must obtain accreditation from the National Accreditation Board and Malaysian Medical Council. The cost of pursuing an MBBS degree in Malaysia is comparable to that of Indian medical colleges, ranging from 55,000 to 110,000 MYR annually (equivalent to 10–20 lacs in INR). Malaysia ranks as the third safest country in Asia and the fourth most affordable country for international students.
Why Opt for MBBS Studies in Malaysia?
1. Prestigious QS Ranking: Many Malaysian universities rank within the top 500 in the QS World Universities Ranking, ensuring high-quality education.
2. Global Recognition: The MBBS degree in Malaysia holds recognition from the Medical Council of Malaysia, enabling graduates to pursue careers worldwide, including in the Middle East, US, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
3. Credit Transfer Opportunities: Certain Malaysian universities facilitate credit transfers to institutions in the US, UK, Australia, and Ireland during the third year of medical education, allowing students to continue their MBBS studies abroad.
4. Straightforward Admission Process: Admission to MBBS programs in Malaysian universities is typically uncomplicated, often without the need for entrance exams or language proficiency tests.
5. Safety and Security: Malaysia is renowned for its safety, particularly for international students, with robust measures in place to ensure their well-being.
6. English-Medium Instruction: MBBS programs in Malaysia are conducted in English, eliminating language barriers for students.
7. Early Clinical Exposure: Malaysian universities offer early clinical and research-based training starting from the third year of MBBS studies, providing students with valuable hospital exposure akin to practices in India.
8. Affordable Living: Malaysia offers a low cost of living, allowing students to enjoy diverse cuisines at affordable prices.
Studying Medicine in Malaysia as an International Student:
Malaysia is a favored destination for international students pursuing medical education, with a significant number hailing from India and other Islamic countries. The country hosts over 140,100 international students from diverse backgrounds, including those seeking medical degrees. Indian students, particularly from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala, find Malaysia an appealing option due to its sizable Indian community, constituting 7% of the population, and a substantial presence of Indian healthcare professionals, fostering a supportive environment.
Recognition of MBBS Degree from Malaysia by NMC:
Following the NMC's gazette notification on November 18, 2021, Indian students considering MBBS studies in Malaysia are keen to ascertain the acceptance of Malaysian MBBS degrees by the National Medical Commission. As per NMC guidelines, MBBS programs should span over 4.5 years, including a year dedicated to clinical rotations or internship within the same college. However, a challenge associated with pursuing MBBS in Malaysia is the limited availability of internship opportunities for international students.