Tourism Malaysia launches Edu+ programme

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), through its agency Tourism Malaysia, has unveiled the Edu+ programme, a new initiative aimed at fostering educational tourism or “edutourism” in Malaysia.

Developed in collaboration with the National Association of Private Educational Institutions (NAPEI), Edu+ is designed for young international students visiting Malaysia under tourist visas, providing them with unique educational and cultural immersion opportunities during their stay. The programme targets students under 16 and kicks off by welcoming young visitors from Japan, with future expansion plans for Korea, China, Russia, and Vietnam.

Innovative Learning and Cultural Experiences

At the heart of Edu+ is an English language learning model paired with an array of experiences that include cultural, heritage, and eco-tourism elements. The programme offers educational and homestay packages, sports tourism, and activities centred around Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing students with holistic exposure to Malaysian culture and the natural environment. Currently, 19 private educational institutions and eight travel agencies are participating in the Edu+ programme, committed to developing customised packages that integrate learning with travel.

NAPEI’s collaboration with Tourism Malaysia has been instrumental in shaping the initiative, leveraging over 36 years of expertise to bridge the educational and tourism sectors. Together, they aim to create an immersive and enriching experience for young travellers, turning Malaysia into a notable destination for short-term educational tourism.

Edu+ to Drive Economic and Tourism Growth

The Edu+ programme is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to Malaysia’s tourism industry. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, stated, “As a country rich in diversity, history, arts and culture, Malaysia has great potential in this tourism segment where Edu+ is set to have a key role in attracting young tourists.” MOTAC anticipates that approximately 10,000 students will enrol in the Edu+ programme in 2024, generating an estimated RM50 million in revenue.

Beyond its immediate economic impact, Edu+ aligns with Malaysia’s broader tourism objectives, particularly the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, which aims to attract 23.5 million tourists and generate RM147.1 billion in tourism receipts. By diversifying Malaysia’s tourism offerings, Edu+ is positioned to strengthen the nation’s reputation as a leading destination for cultural and educational travel in the region.

Encouraging International Cultural Exchange

Edu+ not only enhances Malaysia’s appeal to international tourists but also promotes valuable cultural exchange between countries. As it attracts more students from various nations, the programme allows young visitors to develop an appreciation for Malaysia’s rich heritage while simultaneously fostering goodwill between their home countries and Malaysia.

Through this innovative edutourism initiative, Tourism Malaysia is building a foundation for future cross-cultural understanding and international partnerships.

For more details on the Edu+ programme and its packages, visit www.malaysia.travel.