English Malaysia and the Japanese Association of Overseas Studies have signed a memorandum of understanding to promote language opportunities and increase the number of Japanese students considering a Malaysian education.

Signed by EM president Lau Wai Cheng and JAOS president Yasuo Sone, the MoU seeks to improve collaboration between Japan and Malaysia while also supporting ELT opportunities in Malaysia through communication, special events, campaigns, and activities.

“We are delighted to be working with EM to promote the international education offerings of Malaysia,” Sone said.

“Malaysia has a lot to offer to be a culturally diverse country and a long-time friend of Japan.”

The MoU is a significant step forward for EM, which formed only two years ago and currently has a relatively small member base. EM co-founder Sean Chee said the partnership would help his organization tap into JAOS’ long history.

“JAOS is a very reputable association that has ties with most international education destinations,” he said.

“English Malaysia would like to be included in this scope and JAOS is an ideal partner to collaborate with to increase the awareness of ELT and higher education programs in Malaysia.”

Chee, who is also the director of ELT provider ELS Malaysia, added that further work was planned including scholarships for JAOS members, while more broadly, there was a renewed focus on increasing Malaysia as an affordable ELT destination.

“We have just started – so a lot of groundwork needs to be done,” he said.

“EM is also pushing forward into the future as it aims to put Malaysia on the map for international education and seeks to be a member of Global Alliance of Education and Language Associations.”

English Malaysia features in the latest PIE Review, which explores the allure of studying ELT in Asia.