Unlock the Potential of South East Asia: Your Gateway to Dynamic Education Markets.
Explore opportunities in South East Asia to diversify your institution's student population and establish strategic partnerships.
South East Asia is a region which is developing rapidly, characterised by a youthful population and growing investment in education.
Vietnam and Indonesia are experiencing swift economic growth in international education owing to supportive demographic trends and governmental policies. Cross-border educational activities are expanding as countries seek to enhance learning and global connections. Malaysia and Singapore have long been established hubs for international education and transnational educational collaboration, providing excellent quality education and extensive international partnerships.
This dynamic landscape indicates that whilst Malaysia and Singapore will continue to attract international learners and transnational education, Vietnam and Indonesia are emerging as significant players. For educational institutions, focusing strategic attention on South East Asia is key to diversifying their student body, developing transnational programmes, and forging strategic alliances. Engaging proactively with this dynamically developing region is integral to sustaining success in the field of international education over the long term.
Malaysia
Malaysia, located in the heart of South East Asia, is a dynamic and rapidly developing nation. With a growing middle class and a strong emphasis on education, Malaysia offers significant opportunities for higher education institutions looking to expand their reach.
Demographics and Education Landscape in Malaysia
Malaysia has a diverse population with a significant youth demographic, making it an attractive market for higher education. The country has made substantial investments in education, resulting in a well-developed network of schools and higher education institutions. The Malaysian government's commitment to education is evident in its policies promoting internationalisation and partnerships with foreign universities. Malaysia continues to be a regional hub for international education, attracting students from the Asia Pacific Region, MENA and West Africa.
Key Locations for Student Recruitment in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Penang
Known for its educational institutions and a growing student population.
Johor Bahru
Sabah & Sarawak
These states have a growing need for highly skilled talent and therefore the investment for higher education continues to increase.
Education Abroad and International Recruitment Trends in Malaysia
Malaysia is a key market for international education, with a high number of students pursuing studies abroad. According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics, over 70,000 Malaysian students were enrolled in foreign universities in 2021. Popular destinations for Malaysian students include Australia, with more than 20,000 students, the United Kingdom hosting approximately 16,000 students, the United States attracting about 12,000 students, and Singapore with nearly 10,000 students, according to reports from the Australian Department of Education, UK Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), the Institute of International Education (IIE), and Singapore's Ministry of Education, respectively.
Vietnam
Demographics and Education Landscape in Vietnam
Vietnam is in the midst of a demographic "golden age," with a significant portion of its population in the school-age and university-age brackets. By 2025, it is expected that 22.6 million children will be in the 5-19 age group. The education sector in Vietnam presents a substantial market for higher education institutions and is marked by high private investment, with most outbound students self-funded, highlighting the potential for international universities to attract Vietnamese students.
Key Locations for Student Recruitment in Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City
Hanoi
Da Nang
Education Abroad and International Recruitment Trends in Vietnam
Indonesia
Indonesia, the powerhouse of South East Asia, is not only the largest economy in the region but also the fourth most populous country globally. This dynamic nation, with its vast natural resources and strategic location, is poised to become a leading outbound market for international student recruitment. With a large and growing youth population, Indonesia offers immense potential for higher education institutions looking to expand their reach and impact.
Demographics and Education Landscape in Indonesia
Indonesia's population, currently over 275 million, is characterised by a significant youth demographic, with 40.2% under the age of 24. This young population presents a substantial opportunity for higher education institutions to attract and recruit students. There are over 4,600 higher education institutions, including universities, institutes, tertiary colleges, polytechnics, and academies.
Key Locations for Student Recruitment in Indonesia
Jakarta
The capital and economic hub, home to the University of Indonesia.
Surabaya
A major business centre with institutions like Airlangga University.
Bandung
Semarang
A key shipping port with multiple higher education institutions.
Education Abroad and International Recruitment Trends in Indonesia
Indonesia has a growing number of students seeking education abroad, with popular destinations including Australia, China, Malaysia, the United States, and Japan. The total number of Indonesian students studying abroad is approximately 84,740. This trend is driven by the country's large university-age population and a growing middle class.
Discover South East Asia Through Acumen Insight
The Vietnam Voices Report
Learn the latest information about TNE opportunities in Vietnam with our comprehensive survey. This report is the first of its kind to focus solely on the market for transnational education in Vietnam.
Key Trends in South East Asia Report
Acumen's Key Trends South East Asia report focuses on five trends shaping international education in South East Asia in 2024. Our insights cover both student mobility and transnational education, across key markets such Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
What to Expect from Indonesia’s New Government
Indonesia’s new government will continue the focus on improving education quality, building on the previous government’s policy of Merdeka Belajar (Freedom of Learning).
Insights from South East Asia Episode 1
Dive deep into the trends shaping the future of international education in South East Asia. Explore the findings of a recent report on key trends in the region, offering perspectives on South East Asia and international education.
Insights from South East Asia Episode 2
Discover the insights on navigating market trends, understanding government policies, and the pivotal role of transnational education.
Insights from South East Asia Episode 3
From the rapid economic growth influencing Vietnam's education needs to Malaysia's status as a pivotal education hub, learn how institutions can stand out and adapt to changing market demands.
Insights from South East Asia Episode 4
This engaging discussion covers the rising demand for quality education, the importance of employability and ROI, the impact of technology on learning, and the potential of emerging markets like Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Meet Team South East Asia
