The Health Enhancement Impact Of Self Assimilation In Academic Achievement Amongst International Students In Malaysian Public Universities

Abstract

Irma Wani Othman, Muhammad Safuan Yusoff, Mohd Kamal Mohd Shah, Romzi Ationg, Mohd Sohaimi Esa & Halina Sandera Mohd Yakin.

Malaysia is one of the countries that has become a choice of destination for international students to further their studies. Elements such as recognized international higher learning institution system, the intensive effort of student exchange programme, a calibre teaching team, contemporary and quality courses, an international consolidation with some other best learning institutions in the world together with the connection of regional cooperation are among the collected criteria to portray the ability of Malaysia in attracting more international students. Therefore, the objective of this research is to emphasise the factors that differentiate the first-year experience on self-assimilation as well as academic achievement among international students. The qualitative sampling method involved forty international students who participated voluntarily and data collection was conducted through an in-depth interview technique. The result has generated an understanding on international students’ self-reflection through the nature of their excitement, needs and hopes. Among the factors that were identified were (i) education system in Malaysian Public Universities is seen as a prestigious study destination, (ii) education system Malaysian Public Universities are more comprehensive and versatile, (iii) the learning programmes in Malaysian Universities learning are flexible and dynamic, (iv) the development of the programmes are contemporary and market driven (v) the added value on the benefits using English as a learning and teaching medium in Malaysian Public Universities. Therefore, in examining the quality level of education, it is vital to consider the learning satisfaction among international students in order to have a continuum on the health enhancement impact towards self-assimilation in their academic achievement. The findings are valuable and are useful in showing the significant relevance to the international human resource management Malaysian Public Universities which are dependent on international students at high proportions and applicable in formulating various national higher education policies.