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International Students: Bridging the Gap of Two Cultures

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International Students: Bridging the Gap between Two Cultures
Irma Ahmad
Wan Norhaizar Harun
Nurisyalliena Ishak
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP)

Abstract

Cultural differences play an important role in the academic environment. It is often being overlooked by university, society and even among the international students themselves. When dealing with international students, there is an overlap between perception and acceptance towards readiness and adaptation to the cultural differences. International students’ readiness and ability to adapt with local cultural has influenced on how the university and society view and accept them. In this paper, it explores the understanding and challenges for international students to adapt themselves in UniMAP. It also looks on the effectiveness of university effort in building an inclusive academic environment for its international students.

Introduction
The Ministry of Higher Education of Malaysia has taken a big step in becoming a hub for the international students. The aim is proven by the number of international students in Malaysia. As for the year 2008, it was reported that 16,991 students from foreign countries are studying here (Bernama, Dec 3 2008). In order not to be left behind, University Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) has adhere to the Ministry Of Higher Education aspiration by taking 168 international students that come from various countries namely China, Yemen, Iraq and Pakistan. 74 of them are the undergraduates’ students, 52 postgraduate students and 42 exchange students.

The university has done various preparations in building inclusive academic environment for the international students especially in terms of facilities and infrastructure. However, having good facilities and infrastructure are not enough in dealing with international students. Other aspects such as cultural differences

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