Jazreel Goh’s Post

Eyes East: Building ASEAN Literacy Through Outward Mobility The British Council is thrilled to host students from the UK, Malaysia, and Jiangsu, China for the Sustainable Entrepreneurship Programme in Kuala Lumpur — a joint initiative by the UK-Malaysia University and UK-Jiangsu Worldclass University Consortiums designed to inspire future changemakers. As part of the week-long experience, the British Council Malaysia convened an insightful panel made up of business and academic leaders in Malaysia. Grateful to David Wallace, Deputy High Commissioner at the British High Commission for his inspiring keynote and our distinguished panellists made up of the Board of Directors/representatives from the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (BMCC) for sharing their perspectives. Nic ChambersMartin Haeger MBERyan TellingChia Ping Lee Malaysia, in particular, offers fertile ground for this type of engagement. It hosts the highest number of UK transnational education partnerships in the region, including five branch campuses of leading British universities. These institutions are not just academic outposts; they are bridges between cultures and economies, offering rich local context which are ideal for immersive, globally relevant learning. In addition, UK companies operating in Malaysia further enrich this ecosystem, offering real-world exposure and internship opportunities that can transform classroom learning into global competence. Moreover, Malaysia’s strategic location, political stability, and growing reputation as an education hub make it an ideal launchpad for regional engagement. With inbound student mobility from East Asia to Malaysia growing by average of 25% annually between 2019 and 2023, the country is becoming a magnet for talent and innovation. Through the UK-Malaysia University Consortium, we have created a robust platform for bi and multilateral collaborations in higher education. This year’s UK-Malaysia Student Forum, themed around sustainable entrepreneurship, brought together students from Malaysia, UK and China to co-create solutions to global challenges. These initiatives are not just academic, they are incubators of future leaders, innovators, and bridge-builders. Chris RawlingsScott McDonaldLeighton ErnsbergerEilidh HamiltonMaddalaine AnsellDr. Julia WangPrabha SundramZamira YasminAnushka SethSteve WoodfieldMushtak Al-AtabiMay Tan-MullinsVishna Devi V NadarajahEhsan MesbahiChanya Kim TangsukRyan Nelson

Quality That Endures, Partnerships That Evolve: UK TNE in Malaysia It was fantastic to join the top UK TNE providers in Malaysia (UK5+1) for a meaningful dialogue on positioning and progressing UK TNE in Malaysia. The meeting was chaired by HE Ajay Sharma (CMG), British High Commissioner to Malaysia whose presence truly underscores the UK's strong commitment to high quality education collaborations in the region. The era of 'Western educational dominance' is giving way to a more pluralistic, interconnected world. For UK universities, this is not a loss—it’s an invitation. An invitation to listen more, collaborate deeper, to remain valuable partners and to be relevant global institutions in the 21st century. Mushtak Al-AtabiUK in MalaysiaMay Tan-MullinsM. L. Dennis WongEhsan MesbahiVishna Devi V NadarajahJonathan IvySimon GuyBen MatthewsDr Caroline BaylonRichard ColleyChris RawlingsLeighton ErnsbergerEilidh HamiltonElizabeth LeeAbhi VeerakumarasivamSibrand Poppema

UUKi IHEF 2025 I had the privilege of chairing the session “Navigating New Horizons: Hong Kong and South Korea’s Ambitions in International Education” at this year’s UUKi International Higher Education Forum (IHEF). As global dynamics shift, it’s clear that Hong Kong and South Korea are emerging as important players in the international education landscape. Our session explored their strategic ambitions—from Hong Kong’s “Study Hong Kong” brand to South Korea’s bold “300K policy”—and what these developments mean for the UK sector.  We heard that both South Korea and Hong Kong are making significant strides to enhance their appeal to international students. They are not only responding to global shifts where we are seeing increasing interests for students to travel and study within the EA region but actively redefining their roles as education hubs in Asia and beyond. A huge thank you to our insightful panellists: - Professor James Tang Tuck-hong, Secretary-General, UGC Hong Kong - Prof. Jun Hyun Hong, Chung-Ang University, South Korea - Amy Ho, Assistant Admissions Director, CUHK Their perspectives on policy, soft power, changing behaviours of young people and partnership opportunities were both thought-provoking and inspiring. For the UK, there is opportunity for more collaborations - and to build on the connections made and to ensure a position of relevance as the landscape evolves regionally.  #IHEF2025 Susannah MorleyChris RawlingsPaul ClementsonLeighton ErnsbergerJim Booth OBEEilidh HamiltonShally FanJun Hyun HONGJamie Arrowsmith

UK Transnational Education in East Asia - This report examines the latest trends in UK transnational education (TNE) in East Asia, based on enrolment data collected by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). The outlook for UK TNE remains bright in the region, with TNE enrolments rising for an eight consecutive year in 2023/24 and now approaching 200 thousand students.   While East Asia’s share of global TNE enrolments continues to fall, the region remains the single most important one for UK TNE worldwide.  TNE enrolments in East Asia rose by (at least) 3.6% in 2023/24 over the previous year, indicating that demand continues to grow for UK TNE despite the relative maturity of many markets in the region. The number of students enrolled in UK TNE programmes in East Asia is now 27 per cent greater than before the onset of the pandemic (2019/20).Eduardo RamosLeighton ErnsbergerAlexis BrownDr Geena Whiteman

A Strategic Trilateral Turn: Higher Education Collaboration Reimagined – UK, Malaysia and (Jiangsu) China agree principles for delivery of high-quality trilateral education collaborations The first ever UK-Malaysia- Jiangsu (China) education forum concluded on 20th February 2025, with the announcement of a statement marking all sides’ commitment to working together in deepening and strengthening trilateral partnerships in higher education collaborative programmes. This historic forum brought together education leaders from the UK, Malaysia and Jiangsu province of China, culminating in the Kuala Lumpur Statement of Intent. It formalised the first trilateral strategic alliance in higher education among our three regions—an initiative that reflects the British Council’s evolving ambition to foster meaningful, sustainable and innovative international partnerships. This new alliance builds upon a strong foundation of bilateral collaborations - the UK–Malaysia University Consortium and the UK–Jiangsu University Consortium. Both of these consortiums were initiated by the British Council, and we are now bringing that experience to bear on a new, more ambitious stage. As both the UK and China strengthen their presence in the region, this is also a moment to recognise Asia’s growing influence—not just economically, but in shaping global education. The region is driving new opportunities for innovation in science, technology, and the arts, sparking a cultural and intellectual revival across its rich and diverse societies. Of course, challenges remain. Regulatory frameworks must evolve. Funding models must adapt. Cultural fluency must be nurtured. But these are not barriers; rather, they are opportunities to build smarter, more resilient systems. With the right structures in place, Malaysia, the UK and China can lead a new era of multilateral cooperation that strengthens the value proposition of a global education. As Malaysia aspires to become a regional hub for higher education and global talent, this trilateral alliance offers a powerful platform to realise that vision. It reflects the strength of UK–Malaysia ties, integrates China’s growing role in ASEAN’s education landscape, it builds on the UK’s commitment to ASEAN, and charts a path toward inclusive, future-ready partnerships. The future of international higher education won’t be defined by any single nation, but it can be shaped by those willing to work together with purpose, trust and imagination. The British Council stands ready to support as convener, connector and catalyst. Maddalaine AnsellChris RawlingsLeighton ErnsbergerEilidh HamiltonSimon GuyAlan MarshallDr. Julia WangPrabha SundramUniversities UK InternationalLeina ShiCathy HeAbhi VeerakumarasivamBarry WinnElizabeth LeeMushtak Al-AtabiMay Tan-MullinsVishna Devi V NadarajahIr Dr Pieter PottasAndy SchofieldBen Matthews

I am thrilled to announce that I will be speaking at the upcoming Universities UK International Higher Education Forum (IHEF) 2025! We're diving into the strategic ambitions of Hong Kong and South Korea as they position themselves as key players in attracting international students. This session explores their policies, initiatives, and the implications for the UK education sector. See you all in Birmingham! Susannah MorleyPaul ClementsonLeighton ErnsbergerChris RawlingsSteve WoodfieldBUILAAlexis BrownDr Geena Whiteman

What an unforgettable evening at the recent Alumni UK Gala held at the iconic Kuala Lumpur Performance Arts Centre to celebrate the shared experiences and achievements but also to strengthen the bonds that connect all the proud alumni of the British education system! A heartfelt thanks to Tan Sri (Sir) Dr Jeffrey Cheah for delivering such an inspiring keynote address. His vision and commitment to education have transformed countless lives, and his dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship are values we hold dear at the British Council. The contemporary dance performance by PCK Dance UK was nothing short of spectacular! The artistry and passion showcased by the stellar pair from the UK left us all in awe and highlighted the incredible cultural exchange between our nations. It was wonderful to connect with so many leading lights and rising stars who are proud graduates of UK institutions. Their achievements are a testament to the transformative power of education and the global network we share. Chris RawlingsScott McDonaldMaddalaine AnsellNik Tasha Nik KamaruddinBUILAHelen EtheridgeElizabeth TresnanLeighton ErnsbergerEilidh HamiltonBritish Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (BMCC)Martin HopeCatriona McCarthy

Our 2025 Annual Five Trends in International Education is out!! This year’s Five Trends report spotlights tectonic shifts taking place beneath the surface of international education and their impact on East Asia. On balance, the outlook for UK education is brighter in 2025 than a year ago, but the UK will also face rising competition from non-traditional host destination markets in East Asia, as well as declining enrolments of students from India – the growth engine of international education in recent years. Scott McDonaldMaddalaine AnsellSteve WoodfieldLeighton ErnsbergerEilidh HamiltonChris RawlingsAlexis Brown

I am thrilled to launch the Pop-Up Study UK Exhibition today at the Sunway Pyramid mall! This is an interactive exhibition designed to showcase the UK's cutting-edge research, innovative teaching approaches and student achievements in the areas of health, engineering and technology, sports and arts and design. Thank you to all the fantastic support from our UK university participants, to BUILA, to British High Commission in Malaysia, to the Sunway Group, and most importantly, to my wonderful colleagues both in the UK and Malaysia who made it all possible. And .. not forgetting a big thank you to Paddington Bear who flew all the way from the UK to join in the exciting initiative! Scott McDonaldMaddalaine AnsellSimon GuyBen MatthewsBUILAAilsa TerryDavid WallaceNik Tasha Nik KamaruddinChris RawlingsElizabeth TresnanLeighton ErnsbergerEilidh Hamilton

I’m excited to be speaking at the East Asia Agent Conference 2025. With over 229,000 East Asian students choosing the UK, this event is a must-attend for those shaping the future of international education! Inviting all education agents to join us and explore: The latest UK policy updates Developments in the UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) The role of technology in business growth A great opportunity to connect, learn, and navigate the evolving landscape together. See you in Hong Kong on 6 March 2025! Register here: https://lnkd.in/gQPhBR2b #EastAsiaAgentsConference #InternationalEducation #BritishCouncil #AQF