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Malaysia
This Week in AsiaEconomics

As Chinese students pick Malaysia, their parents buy second homes

Anwar could negotiate for more cooperation on education with Xi to capitalise on the momentum, industry insiders say

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A view of University Malaya. More students from China are looking to universities in Malaysia to further their studies. Photo: Shutterstock
Hadi Azmi
A surge in demand for Malaysian real estate from wealthy Chinese families drawn to the country’s international schools and universities may gain further momentum with this week’s visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
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With a sizeable Chinese community, Mandarin-friendly programmes, and a multicultural environment, Malaysia offers a sense of continuity and comfort for students from China, property agents say.

“Education is a key driver,” real estate market intelligence group Juwai IQI Group CEO Kashif Ansari said. “Families often purchase property near universities or international schools, especially in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penang, where the education infrastructure appeals to overseas Chinese.”

The Malaysian government’s education diplomacy – including streamlined student visas, reciprocal university links and partnerships with institutions like Xiamen University – has also cemented Malaysia’s role as a soft-power bridge.

Juwai IQI reported a notable shift in 2024 among ultra-wealthy Chinese buyers, who are purchasing fewer homes in the United States and turning their focus instead to Southeast Asia and Australia.

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Malaysia jumped from outside the top 10 to become the fourth most-inquired destination among high-net worth Chinese property seekers in 2024, behind Thailand, Australia and Canada, and just ahead of the UK.

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