Transnational (internationalization) education in Malaysia: conceptual framework and future trends

Abstract

Transnational and internationalization has often been used interchangebly ever since the higher education become a real part of the globalization process. Consequently, higher education can no longer be viewed in a strictly national context. This calls for a broader definition of internationalization (in which the concept is used in this article), which embraces the entire functioning of higher education and not merely a dimension or aspect of it, or the actions of some individuals who are part of it. Hence, this article will provide a conceptual framework of internationalization of higher education in Malaysia's education system which includes on the definitions of the term itself, a description of the various rationales for and approaches of this concept as well as the future trends of the concept when incorporated into the education system of Malaysia. With this in mind, the Malaysian state does not only have a high stake in higher education but also holds a tight rein on all the higher education institutions through the various legislations and strategies.