Malaysia has recently seen a high influx of international students, making it a haven for students seeking high-quality education at a negotiable price. Many of these students come to study medicine in Malaysia, given the country’s well-developed healthcare system that covers both public and private sectors. The country has over 300 hospitals and more than 38,000 registered doctors. The field of medicine in Malaysia is broad and multidisciplinary, with various specialties and sub-specialties available for doctors to choose from. Malaysia also has a strong research culture and a vibrant academic community, with many universities and institutions conducting cutting-edge research and innovation in medicine.
Medical education in Malaysia is of high quality and internationally recognized. The country has 38 medical schools, both public and private, that offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine. The medical curriculum is based on the British system and follows the standards set by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC). Moreover, medical education in Malaysia is far more affordable compared to countries like the UK, the US, or Australia. The demand for doctors in Malaysia is growing due to the increasing population and rising healthcare needs. According to the Health Ministry, Malaysia needs 28,000 medical specialists by 2030, as the country faces the challenges of non-communicable diseases and an ageing population.
In this article, we look at some of the top universities in Malaysia offering medicine programs, along with their entry requirements, fees, and more.
Overview of Study Medicine in Malaysia
| No. of Universities | 30+ |
| No. of Programs | 50+ |
| Degrees Offered | MBBS, MD |
| Duration of Study | 5-6 years |
| Tuition Fees | 85,000-100,000 MYR |
Why Study Medicine in Malaysia?
International Recognition: Malaysian medical degrees are recognized globally. Many Malaysian universities offering medical programs are accredited by international bodies, ensuring that graduates can pursue further studies or practice medicine in various countries.
Quality Education: Several Malaysian universities are renowned for their high-quality medical education. They often have well-equipped facilities, experienced faculty, and modern teaching methods to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of medical sciences.
English-Medium Programs: Many medical schools in Malaysia offer programs in English, making them accessible to international students. This is advantageous for students who may need to be fluent in the local language but still want to pursue medical studies.
Cultural Diversity: Malaysia is known for its cultural diversity, and studying medicine in this environment can provide a unique and enriching experience. Exposure to diverse cultures can be valuable for future healthcare professionals, as they may interact with patients from various backgrounds.
Cost of Living: Compared to some Western countries, the cost of living in Malaysia is relatively lower. This includes accommodation, food, and transportation. This can be a significant factor for international students on a budget.
Modern Infrastructure: Many Malaysian universities have invested in modern infrastructure and technology to provide students with a contemporary learning experience. State-of-the-art laboratories, simulation facilities, and hospitals for clinical training contribute to a well-rounded education.
Clinical Exposure: Malaysia offers ample opportunities for clinical exposure and practical experience. Medical students often have the chance to work in hospitals and clinics, gaining hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
Global Health Challenges: Malaysia faces a variety of health challenges, and studying medicine in this context can provide students with insights into diverse health issues. This exposure can be beneficial for those interested in global health and healthcare disparities.
Post-Graduation Opportunities: After completing their medical degrees, students can pursue postgraduate studies or work in Malaysia. The country has a demand for healthcare professionals, and international graduates may find employment opportunities.
Top Universities to Study Medicine in Malaysia
International Medical University
The International Medical University (IMU) is a private, English-language, health sciences university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It was established in 1992 as the International Medical College, and it was granted full university status by the government in 1999. IMU has a reputation for excellence in medical and health sciences education, research, and innovation. It is one of only three private universities in Malaysia that received the “6 Star: Outstanding” SETARA ranking by the Ministry of Higher Education in 2017 and 2020. IMU cooperates with universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, China, and the United States of America for student exchange, credit transfer, and twinning programs. As of November 2022, the university has 781 employees and 3,717 students. IMU offers a wide range of programs in medical and other health sciences, such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, chiropractic, Chinese medicine, psychology, biomedical science, dietetics, nutrition, medical biotechnology, and postgraduate studies. IMU is the first university in Malaysia that offers conventional and complementary medicine, all under one roof.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| MBBS | 5 years | 118,500 MYR |
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Taylor’s University
Taylor’s University is a private university in Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. It was founded in 1969 as a college and became a university in 2010. It is ranked as the top private university in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, and among the top 1% of universities in the world by QS World University Rankings. It has a student population of about 24,000, with more than 5,000 international students from over 80 countries. Taylor’s University offers a wide range of programs, from foundation to PhD level, across various disciplines. It has a strong reputation for its medicine programs, which are accredited by the Malaysian Medical Council and recognized by the World Health Organization. The programs are delivered by the School of Medicine, which has state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty members. The School of Medicine also collaborates with leading hospitals and health institutions to provide clinical training and research opportunities for its students.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| MBBS | 5 years | 470,829 MYR (Total Fees) |
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Perdana University
Perdana University is a private university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia that focuses on health science and data science programs. It was established in 2011 and has six schools and two centers. The university’s history is closely linked to the vision of its founding chancellor, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who wanted to create a world-class institution for medical education and research in Malaysia. The university’s reputation is based on its academic excellence, international partnerships, and innovative curriculum. It has been awarded Tier 4: Very Good in the Rating System for Malaysian Higher Education 2017 by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia. The university offers a range of programs at the foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels, covering disciplines such as medicine, pharmacy, occupational therapy, data science, business, and public health. The university’s medicine program is among its flagship offerings, as it aims to produce competent and compassionate doctors who can meet the needs of society. The university has the PU-RCSI program, which follows the Irish curriculum and awards the Bachelor of Medicine, and Bachelor of Surgery, and is five years long and consists of pre-clinical and clinical phases.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| MBBS | 5 years | 500,000 MYR (Total Fees) |
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AIMST University
AIMST University is a private university in Malaysia that was established in 2001 by the Maju Institute of Education Development (MIED), a non-profit organization. The university is located in Semeling, Kedah, and offers various programs for Foundation, Diploma, Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral levels in Science, Business, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy and Biotechnology. The university has over 20 years of experience in quality and affordable tertiary education and has a reputation for excellence in teaching and research. The university has about 3,500 students enrolled in its various programs, and has a student-faculty ratio of 15:1. The university’s Faculty of Medicine offers the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program, which is a five-year program that follows the U.K.-based curriculum. The program is accredited by the Malaysian Medical Council and the Malaysian Qualifications Agency and is recognized by the World Health Organization and the General Medical Council of the U.K. The program aims to produce competent and compassionate doctors who can meet the health needs of the society.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| MBBS | 5 years | 75,830 MYR |
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MAHSA University
MAHSA University is a private medical university in Malaysia that was founded in 2005 by Professor Tan Sri Dr. Hj. Mohamed Haniffa, a renowned clinical practitioner of Medicine. The university has grown from a college to a comprehensive higher education institution that offers a wide range of programs in various fields, including Medicine, Biosciences, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Nursing, Business, Finance, Hospitality Management, Information Technology, and Engineering. The university also offers an IR4.0 curriculum, incorporating state-of-the-art facilities on campus, such as an Additive Manufacturing Lab and an AI-based Dental lab. One of the flagship programs of MAHSA University is the Faculty of Medicine, which offers a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. The program is accredited by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). The program adopts a student-centered and problem-based learning approach, with early clinical exposure and integration of basic and clinical sciences.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| MBBS | 5 years | 85,640 MYR |
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Admission Requirements for Medicine in Malaysia
- You should have completed your high school education with strong academic performance, particularly in science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics/Mathematics).
- Since the medium of instruction is often English, international students must provide proof of English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Some universities in Malaysia may require international students to take a specific entrance examination.
- Candidates may be required to participate in an interview as part of the admission process. This is an opportunity for the university to assess your communication skills, motivation, and suitability for the medical program.
- Applicants are typically required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they are physically fit to pursue a medical degree
Career Opportunities for Medicine Graduates in Malaysia
Malaysia is a country that offers many opportunities for medical professionals who want to pursue their careers and live fulfilling lives. With its well-developed healthcare sector, diverse culture, and high standard of living, Malaysia attracts many foreign doctors who want to work and settle there. Malaysia has a high demand for doctors due to its growing population and increasing healthcare needs. The government has implemented various initiatives to recruit and retain doctors, such as providing attractive salary packages and streamlined immigration procedures. There are also many options for doctors to work in different settings, such as public hospitals, private clinics, academic institutions, or research centers.
The salary of doctors in Malaysia depends on many factors, such as their qualifications, experience, specialization, and sector of employment. Generally, doctors in Malaysia earn more than the national average, which is around 3,500 MYR per month. According to some sources12, the average annual salary for doctors in Malaysia is around 15,500 MYR, with a range from 5,680 MYR to 26,100 MYR. Doctors who work in the private sector or run their practice tend to earn more than those who work in the public sector. Specialists also earn more than general practitioners, especially if they perform surgeries or have a high demand for their services. Some of the highest-paying specialties in Malaysia are cardiology, neurology, dermatology, and general surgery
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be an extremely wise decision to study medicine in Malaysia for anyone who wants to become a doctor. Malaysia offers comprehensive and quality medical education, low-cost and high-standard living, and a diverse and friendly culture. Moreover, Malaysia has a huge demand for doctors, which creates a favorable and competitive job market for medical graduates. This is the best time to study medicine in Malaysia and join the noble profession of saving lives and improving health. For more information regarding the same, reach out to our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!
