Have you recently moved to Malaysia to study or work and are now considering educational options for your children? You’re in luck because Malaysia offers plenty of suitable schools catering to different needs of Arabs and foreigners. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best international schools available for Arabs in Malaysia. These schools specifically target Arab families looking for pre-university education for their children.
With the growing number of Arab families settling in Malaysia for work and studying, many schools aim to be the top option for Arab families in the years before uni.
After covering Master’s Degree in Arabic in Malaysia in a previous guide, this is another helpful guide for Arabs in Malaysia.
Arabic Schools in Malaysia: An Overview
Malaysia has witnessed a significant increase in the number of Arab communities, who are not permitted to enroll in public schools. This has led to a rise in the number of private schools offering curricula in Arabic and English, catering to the growing needs of Arab communities in the country.
Types of Arabic Schools in Malaysia
The types of schools available to Arab families differ based on:
- The nature of the curriculum.
- The management style.
- The institution’s affiliation.
Accordingly, there are schools affiliated with Arab embassies, private international schools, and Malaysian Islamic international schools. We will discuss each type and the most prominent schools in the following sections.
First: Malaysian International Schools
These schools offer internationally recognized curricula, such as the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). They provide educational programs aimed at both international and local students, making them ideal for families seeking high-quality education that opens doors to prestigious universities around the world. One of the prominent examples of such schools is Al Basirah International School.
Al Basirah International School
Al Basirah is one of the leading Islamic international schools in Malaysia. It offers an integrated curriculum that focuses on the academic and religious development of its students. The school was established with the aim of providing an education that strengthens Islamic values while delivering an international curriculum that ensures students are prepared for a successful academic and professional future. The school emphasizes nurturing students with Islamic morals, alongside offering internationally recognized modern curricula.
- Located in Kuala Lumpur, Al Basirah caters to students from kindergarten through to secondary school.
- The school provides the Cambridge International curriculum, starting from the primary stage with the International Primary Program and progressing to the IGCSE for secondary education. This curriculum incorporates elements from educational programs in the Middle East as well as Malaysia.
Curriculum at Al Basirah International School
- British Curriculum (Cambridge IGCSE): Al Basirah follows the British IGCSE curriculum, one of the most renowned and widely recognized educational programs globally. This curriculum helps students earn an internationally accepted qualification that allows them to gain admission to universities around the world.
- Islamic Education: In addition to the international academic curriculum, the school offers a robust Islamic education program focused on the teachings of the Quran, Hadith, and Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence). The Islamic curriculum is designed to align with religious values and Islamic culture.
- Comprehensive Islamic Education: This includes teaching the Arabic language and Islamic studies in depth, enabling students to better understand their religion and cultural heritage.
Target Audience
- Malaysian Muslim Families: The school is suitable for Muslim families who seek an international education for their children with a special focus on Islamic upbringing. It combines modern academic education with traditional Islamic teachings.
- Arabs and Foreigners: Al Basirah welcomes students from various nationalities, providing a diverse learning environment that integrates modern education with Islamic values.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees at Al Basirah International School vary depending on the educational level:
- Kindergarten: 9,500 MYR
- Primary School: 12,500 – 14,500 MYR
- Secondary School: 16,500 – 17,500 MYR
- A-Level Program: 18,000 MYR
The school aims to offer a balanced education that combines high academic standards with a strong emphasis on Islamic principles, making it an attractive choice for many Arab and Muslim families residing in Malaysia.
Second: International Arabic Schools in Malaysia
These schools offer a global education in English while maintaining a focus on teaching the Arabic language and Islamic studies. They cater to Arab students and international residents who seek a blend of global education while preserving their Arabic culture and heritage.
International Arabic schools in Malaysia provide a combination of curricula that meet the needs of both expatriate and local students, with a strong emphasis on Arabic language and Islamic studies. These institutions are ideal for families who want their children to receive a quality education that is internationally recognized while still being rooted in Arabic traditions.
International Modern Arabic School (IMAS)
The International Modern Arabic School, or IMAS, is an Islamic international school that offers a British-based curriculum integrated with comprehensive Islamic and Arabic studies. Established in 2007 as a non-profit bilingual (Arabic-British) institution, IMAS started with 220 students. By 2012, the number of students had grown to over 700, gaining both Arab and international recognition.
Today, IMAS holds a unique position among Arabic and international schools in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, with a current enrollment of around 1,600 students from 68 different nationalities.
The school’s primary mission is to develop creative minds with a sense of empathy and understanding. It is committed to strengthening students’ spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and physical capacities, equipping them to face future challenges and be aware of their duty to serve their community.
Curriculum at IMAS
- British Curriculum (IGCSE): IMAS follows the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), which is widely accepted by universities worldwide. This curriculum allows students to study a variety of academic subjects, including mathematics, science, languages, and technology, preparing them for higher education on a global scale.
- Arabic Curriculum: Alongside the British curriculum, IMAS offers a strong Arabic program that includes language studies and Islamic education. These components aim to preserve the students’ cultural and religious identity, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
- Islamic Education: The school prioritizes Islamic education to ensure that students not only excel academically but also grow with a deep understanding of their religion and values, fostering a foundation of strong Islamic ethics.
Target Audience
- IMAS targets Arab and international families residing in Malaysia who wish to provide their children with an international education while maintaining instruction in Arabic and Islamic studies.
- It is an ideal choice for families who want to equip their children with a globally recognized education that prepares them for admission to top universities worldwide, without compromising their cultural identity.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees at IMAS vary based on the educational level:
- Kindergarten: 9,500 MYR
- Primary School: 13,000 MYR
- Secondary School: 14,500 MYR
Third: Embassy-Affiliated Arabic Schools in Malaysia
Embassy-affiliated Arabic schools in Malaysia cater specifically to Arab students residing in the country. These schools follow the national curriculum of their respective home countries, making them an ideal option for families who wish to maintain their children’s education in Arabic and preserve their cultural background.
Schools associated with embassies such as Libya, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and Yemen offer education that emphasizes cultural and religious identity, ensuring an easier transition between the educational systems in Malaysia and the students’ home countries.
These schools cover all educational levels, from kindergarten to secondary school, and follow the curricula recognized by their respective Ministries of Education. The schools ensure a high-quality education that not only includes core academic subjects but also integrates cultural and religious values. Below, we explore some of the main embassy-affiliated schools.
1. The Libyan School in Malaysia
The Libyan School in Kuala Lumpur is an accredited educational institution that serves the children of the Libyan community in Malaysia, following the Libyan curriculum approved by the Ministry of Education in Libya. The school’s mission is to provide a comprehensive education that allows Libyan students to continue their studies according to national standards, while also preserving their cultural and religious identity.
Located in the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, the school is situated in the Ampang area, which is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in the city.
Curriculum at the Libyan School
The school follows the Libyan curriculum in full, which includes:
- Arabic Language
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- Islamic Education
- History and Geography
These subjects are designed to prepare students according to the Libyan educational standards, enabling them to return to Libyan schools or universities if they go back home.
Educational Levels
The Libyan School offers education from kindergarten through to secondary school. Students are prepared at each stage according to the Libyan education system, allowing them to take the final Libyan exams or enroll in Libyan or other Arab universities without difficulty.
Advantages
- Continuity in Education: By adhering to the Libyan curriculum, the school ensures educational continuity for students who may return to Libya, thus avoiding any discrepancies or gaps in their learning.
- Preserving Cultural Identity: The school places a strong emphasis on teaching Libyan and Islamic values to ensure that students remain connected to their cultural and religious roots.
- Support from the Libyan Embassy: The school’s programs and administration are backed by the Libyan Embassy in Malaysia, which adds credibility to its educational offerings.
2. The Iraqi School in Malaysia
The Iraqi School in Malaysia is operated by the Iraqi government and managed by the Iraqi Embassy in Malaysia. The school provides accredited education that follows the Iraqi curriculum, which facilitates the transition for Iraqi students when they return to their home country.
It is also one of the primary educational institutions catering to the Iraqi community living in Malaysia, as well as other Arab students who wish to study in Arabic under a system that aligns with Iraqi standards.
Located in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, the school is conveniently accessible for families residing in the city or nearby areas.
Curriculum at the Iraqi School
The school follows the curriculum set by the Iraqi Ministry of Education, which is a comprehensive program covering all the essential subjects, including:
- Arabic Language: Instruction focuses on reading, writing, and understanding literary texts.
- Mathematics: The curriculum covers topics from basic arithmetic to advanced mathematics, suitable for students from primary to secondary levels.
- Sciences: Includes biology, chemistry, and physics, with practical applications based on the grade level.
- Social Studies: Covers history, geography, and Iraqi cultural heritage, aiming to maintain a strong connection to students’ roots.
- Islamic Education: Emphasizes the teachings of Islam, including the Quran and Islamic values.
Educational Levels
The school accommodates students across various educational stages:
- Primary Level (Grade 1-6): Focuses on foundational subjects to build strong academic skills.
- Intermediate Level (Grade 7-9): Prepares students for higher academic challenges.
- Secondary Level (Grade 10-12): Equips students for national exams and future university studies.
Advantages
- Accredited Iraqi Curriculum: The school provides an official Iraqi curriculum, ensuring that students can seamlessly continue their education when returning to Iraq or transferring to other countries that recognize the Iraqi educational system.
- Focus on Arabic Language: Arabic is a core subject, making the school an excellent choice for families who want to enhance their children’s language skills while maintaining cultural identity.
- Cultural and Historical Education: The school emphasizes Iraqi history and cultural heritage, instilling a sense of national pride in students.
- Islamic Education Alignment: The curriculum supports the religious values of Iraqi and other Arab families by providing Islamic education that matches their beliefs.
3. The Saudi School in Malaysia
The Saudi School in Malaysia is one of the embassy-affiliated Arabic schools that provides educational services to Saudi and Arab families residing in Malaysia. This school is part of the educational network managed by the Saudi Ministry of Education, ensuring that it adheres to the standards and curricula followed in Saudi Arabia.
Curriculum at the Saudi School
The Saudi School in Malaysia implements the official Saudi curriculum, approved by the Saudi Ministry of Education. This curriculum covers essential subjects such as mathematics, science, Arabic language, Islamic studies, and history. Additionally, the school offers courses that focus on Saudi culture and Islamic values, helping to preserve the cultural and religious identity of Saudi and Arab students.
Educational Levels
The school provides education for all grade levels, from primary to secondary school. This means that students can complete their entire education within the school, without the need to transfer to other institutions as they progress through their academic journey.
Advantages
- Accredited Saudi Curriculum: Following the Saudi educational system makes this school an ideal choice for families who plan to return to Saudi Arabia or aim for universities in Malaysia that are recognized by the Kingdom.
- Cohesive Learning Environment: Students are taught alongside peers who share similar cultural and linguistic backgrounds, making it easier for them to integrate and excel.
- Affordable Tuition Fees: The school offers reasonable tuition rates that are accessible for many Saudi and Arab families.
4. The Somali School in Malaysia
The Somali School in Malaysia caters specifically to the Somali community residing in the country, with a curriculum designed to reflect the cultural and religious values of Somali families. The school aims to provide an education that not only meets academic standards but also aligns with the cultural identity of its students.
Curriculum at the Somali School
The school follows the official Somali curriculum, offering core subjects such as:
- Arabic Language: Focusing on reading, writing, and comprehension to ensure students are proficient in the language.
- Somali Language: Helps students maintain their mother tongue and cultural heritage.
- Mathematics: Covers foundational to advanced levels, preparing students for higher education.
- Sciences: Includes subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics, taught according to the grade level.
- Islamic Studies: Emphasizes Quranic education, Islamic values, and religious knowledge.
In addition to these core subjects, the school also incorporates other courses aimed at fostering critical thinking and creativity. English is taught as a mandatory subject to prepare students for international communication and future educational opportunities.
Educational Levels
The Somali School provides comprehensive education from primary through secondary levels, including:
- Primary Level: Grades 1 through 6, focusing on foundational subjects.
- Intermediate Level: Grades 7 through 9, building on the knowledge from primary school.
- Secondary Level: Grades 10 through 12, preparing students for university education and life beyond school.
The school supports students in completing their education according to the approved curriculum, providing the necessary resources to qualify them for higher education after graduation.
Advantages
- Cultural and Religious Educational Environment: The school offers an educational setting that aligns with Islamic and Somali cultural values, helping students stay connected to their heritage.
- Multilingual Education: In addition to Somali, the school teaches both Arabic and English, enhancing students’ prospects for higher education in various countries.
- Extracurricular Activities: The school organizes extracurricular activities such as sports, cultural competitions, and religious events to provide a well-rounded educational experience.
- Focus on Islamic Studies: Special emphasis is placed on teaching the Quran and Islamic studies, making it a suitable choice for families seeking a comprehensive religious education for their children.
5. The Yemeni School in Malaysia
The Yemeni School in Malaysia is an educational institution that primarily serves the children of the Yemeni community and other Arab students residing in the country. The school provides a balanced education that incorporates the Yemeni national curriculum and Islamic studies, aiming to meet the academic and cultural needs of its students.
Curriculum at the Yemeni School
The school follows the official Yemeni curriculum approved by the Ministry of Education in Yemen, enabling students to continue their education according to Yemeni standards. This approach is particularly beneficial for those planning to return to Yemen or relocate to other countries.
The curriculum covers essential subjects, including:
- Arabic Language: Focusing on literacy and language proficiency.
- Mathematics: Taught according to Yemeni educational guidelines.
- Sciences: Includes subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, with content tailored to various grade levels.
- Islamic Education: Emphasizes the teachings of Islam, including Quranic studies and religious values.
- History and Geography: Provides insights into both Yemeni and global contexts.
- English Language: Offered to ensure students are equipped for higher education opportunities at international universities.
In addition to these core subjects, the school offers supplementary courses aimed at enhancing the students’ scientific and linguistic skills while maintaining their cultural and religious identity.
Educational Levels
The Yemeni School offers all essential educational stages, including:
- Primary Level: Grades 1 to 6, focusing on foundational subjects.
- Intermediate Level: Grades 7 to 9, building upon the basics learned in primary school.
- Secondary Level: Grades 10 to 12, preparing students for university education or vocational training.
Students can complete their education at the school and obtain recognized certificates, allowing them to pursue further studies in Malaysia or other countries.
Advantages
- Arabic Educational Environment: The school provides a learning atmosphere tailored to Yemeni and Arab students, with a strong emphasis on Arabic language and Islamic studies.
- Internationally Recognized Education: The Yemeni curriculum is accepted in many Arab universities, making the school’s qualifications suitable for students planning to continue their studies in the Arab world.
- Cultural Connectivity: The school helps students maintain their Yemeni cultural identity and appreciate their religious and social values.
- Academic Support Programs: The school offers academic assistance for students who may need extra help in core subjects.
- Strong Academic Preparation: The Yemeni School focuses on building a solid academic foundation for students, preparing them effectively for higher education.
Steps for Applying to Arabic Schools in Malaysia
If you are planning to enroll your child in one of the Arabic schools in Malaysia, follow these straightforward steps to ensure a smooth application process:
1. Choose the Right School
- Begin by selecting a school that matches your educational requirements and fits within your budget.
- You can visit the websites of schools like Baseerah International School or International Modern Arabic School (IMAS) to explore available Arabic schools and their offerings. Look for factors such as curriculum type, tuition fees, and extracurricular activities to find the best fit.
2. Online Application
- Most Arabic schools in Malaysia provide an online registration system.
- Start by filling out the online form on the school’s official website. Make sure to contact the school directly if you have any questions about the application process or need further information.
3. Prepare the Required Documents
Ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready for submission. The required documents typically include:
- A copy of the child’s passport
- Birth certificate
- Previous school reports or transcripts
- Passport-sized photos of the student
4. Interview or Entrance Test
Some schools may require an interview or an entrance test to assess the child’s academic level. This step can vary from school to school, but it’s generally a standard part of the admission process.
5. Payment of Tuition Fees
Once your child is accepted, you will need to pay the initial tuition fees to confirm the enrollment. The fee structure will vary depending on the school and grade level.
6. Apply for a Student Visa (for International Students)
- If you are coming from outside Malaysia, you will need to apply for a student visa for your son.
- Most schools provide guidance on how to complete this process and may assist with the visa application through their administration.
Accreditation of Arabic Schools in Malaysia
Many Arabic schools in Malaysia aim to obtain accreditation from reputable international bodies to ensure the quality of education and global recognition of their certificates. These accreditations enhance the value of the education provided, opening up broad opportunities for students to continue their studies at prestigious universities worldwide. Below are the key accreditation bodies that recognize the certificates of Arabic schools in Malaysia:
1. Malaysian Ministry of Education (MOE) Recognition
Recognition by the Malaysian Ministry of Education is crucial for schools to comply with local educational regulations because:
- It facilitates the smooth transition between different educational systems within Malaysia.
- It strengthens the value of education on both local and international levels, making it easier for students to continue their education either domestically or abroad.
2. Council of International Schools (CIS)
The Council of International Schools (CIS) is one of the most prominent global accreditation bodies due to its:
- Rigorous standards that ensure high-quality education in accredited schools.
- International reputation, which enhances the global recognition of graduates and increases their acceptance into universities and job markets worldwide. Over 1,500 educational institutions globally rely on CIS accreditation, ensuring the certificates are recognized internationally.
3. Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) primarily accredits schools offering American-style curricula because it:
- Ensures that schools adhere to the highest educational quality standards across all grade levels.
- Provides global recognition for certificates issued by accredited schools, making them valid internationally.
4. New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) is a distinguished accrediting body because it:
- Is a non-profit accreditation organization that oversees more than 1,500 schools worldwide.
- Offers innovative methodologies to improve educational quality, making its accreditation recognized in various countries.
This guide has aimed to provide comprehensive information on the schools available for Arabs in Malaysia. Our team will continue to update this guide as new information becomes available.
By choosing an accredited school, parents can ensure that their children receive a quality education that aligns with global standards, enhancing their future educational and career prospects.
