Study Hospitality & Tourism in Malaysia

August 28, 2025

The global hospitality and tourism industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving sector, constantly adapting to new trends, technologies, and consumer demands. It encompasses a vast array of services, from hotels and resorts to airlines, travel agencies, event management, and culinary arts. As one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing industries, it offers immense opportunities for professionals with the right skills and knowledge. For international students aspiring to build a successful career in this exciting field, choosing the right study destination is paramount. Malaysia, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and burgeoning tourism sector, stands out as a vibrant and strategic hub for those looking to study hospitality in Malaysia.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide international students with a detailed overview of the hospitality and tourism education landscape in Malaysia. We will explore the top programs offered by leading universities, delve into the specific requirements for admission, and highlight the promising career prospects that await graduates in this thriving industry. Malaysia’s commitment to developing its tourism infrastructure and human capital has led to significant investments in hospitality education, creating a fertile ground for practical learning and professional development. This guide will help you navigate the opportunities available, enabling you to make an informed decision about your academic and professional future in hospitality and tourism.

Why Study Hospitality & Tourism in Malaysia?

Choosing Malaysia as your destination for hospitality and tourism studies offers a multitude of advantages that extend beyond academic rigor. The country’s robust tourism industry, diverse cultural experiences, and strong educational infrastructure create an ideal environment for aspiring professionals in this service-oriented sector.

Thriving Tourism Industry: Malaysia’s Popularity as a Tourist Destination

Malaysia is consistently ranked among the top tourist destinations globally, attracting millions of visitors each year with its diverse attractions, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, vibrant cities, and rich cultural tapestry. This thriving tourism industry provides an unparalleled living laboratory for hospitality and tourism students. The sheer volume and variety of hotels, resorts, theme parks, convention centers, and travel agencies offer abundant opportunities for internships, practical training, and real-world case studies. Students gain firsthand exposure to international service standards and operational excellence, which is invaluable for their professional development.

Quality Education: MQA Accreditation and Industry-Driven Curriculum

Malaysian universities are increasingly recognized globally for their commitment to quality education. The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) ensures that all academic programs, including those in hospitality and tourism, adhere to stringent national and international quality benchmarks. This accreditation guarantees that degrees obtained from Malaysian institutions are recognized worldwide, facilitating seamless transitions for graduates seeking employment or further studies internationally. Furthermore, many hospitality and tourism programs in Malaysia are developed with strong input from industry partners, ensuring that the curriculum is up-to-date, industry-relevant, and equips students with the practical skills demanded by employers in the global hospitality sector.

Affordability: Cost-Effective Compared to Western Countries

One of Malaysia’s most significant draws for international students is its affordability. Compared to traditional study destinations in Western countries, the cost of tuition fees and living expenses in Malaysia is considerably lower, without compromising on the quality of education. This makes a world-class hospitality and tourism degree accessible to a broader range of students, offering an excellent return on investment. For a detailed breakdown of costs, you can refer to our articles on Cost of Studying in Malaysia for International Students: A Detailed Breakdown.

Practical Experience: Opportunities for Internships and Industry Exposure

Hospitality and tourism education is inherently practical, and Malaysian institutions excel in providing hands-on experience. Many programs incorporate compulsory internships, industrial training, or co-operative education components, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. These practical experiences are often facilitated through strong partnerships between universities and leading hotels, resorts, airlines, and event management companies. Such exposure not only enhances learning but also builds a valuable professional network and significantly boosts employability upon graduation.

Multicultural Environment: Exposure to Diverse Cultures and International Service Standards

Studying in Malaysia provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich multicultural environment. The country is a melting pot of various ethnicities, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities, creating a vibrant social fabric. This diversity extends to the university campuses, where international students from over 150 countries converge. Such an environment fosters cross-cultural understanding, enhances communication skills, and broadens perspectives, all of which are invaluable assets for hospitality and tourism professionals working with a global clientele. Engaging with peers from different backgrounds helps develop crucial cross-cultural communication and negotiation skills, highly sought after in the service industry.

Top Hospitality & Tourism Programs in Malaysia

Malaysian universities offer a comprehensive range of Hospitality & Tourism programs, designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in various facets of this dynamic industry. These programs often include a blend of theoretical foundations, practical applications, and opportunities for specialization. Below is an overview of some popular Hospitality & Tourism disciplines available for international students in Malaysia.

Hotel Management

Hotel Management programs focus on the operational and administrative aspects of running hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments. Students learn about front office operations, housekeeping, food and beverage management, human resources, and financial management within a hotel context.

What you will learn: Hotel operations, guest services, revenue management, facilities management, hospitality law, human resource management in hospitality.
Career Prospects: Hotel Manager, Front Office Manager, Housekeeping Manager, Food & Beverage Manager, Rooms Division Manager.

Tourism Management

Tourism Management programs explore the broader tourism industry, including destination management, tour operations, sustainable tourism, and tourism marketing. It prepares students for roles in travel agencies, tourism boards, and destination marketing organizations.

What you will learn: Tourism planning and development, sustainable tourism, e-tourism, travel agency operations, tour guiding, tourism marketing.
Career Prospects: Tour Operator, Destination Manager, Tourism Marketing Executive, Travel Consultant, Eco-tourism Manager.

Culinary Arts

Culinary Arts programs focus on the art and science of food preparation, cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. These programs often include extensive practical training in professional kitchens.

What you will learn: Classical and modern cooking techniques, pastry and baking, menu planning, kitchen management, food hygiene and safety, culinary entrepreneurship.
Career Prospects: Chef, Pastry Chef, Sous Chef, Restaurant Manager, Caterer, Food Entrepreneur.

Event Management

Event Management programs prepare students to plan, organize, and execute various types of events, including conferences, conventions, exhibitions, weddings, and festivals. It covers logistics, budgeting, marketing, and risk management for events.

What you will learn: Event planning and design, venue management, event marketing, sponsorship and fundraising, risk management for events, post-event evaluation.
Career Prospects: Event Manager, Conference Organizer, Exhibition Manager, Wedding Planner, Festival Coordinator.

Food & Beverage Management

This specialization focuses on the management of food and beverage operations within hotels, restaurants, catering companies, and other hospitality establishments. It covers service standards, cost control, menu engineering, and staff management.

What you will learn: Restaurant operations, bar management, cost control, menu development, service quality management, wine and spirits knowledge.
Career Prospects: Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, Catering Manager, Food & Beverage Director.

Leisure & Recreation Management

Leisure and Recreation Management programs focus on the planning, development, and management of leisure activities, recreational facilities, and sports events. It prepares students for roles in resorts, theme parks, sports complexes, and community recreation centers.

What you will learn: Recreation programming, facility management, sports management, outdoor recreation, customer service in leisure, marketing leisure services.
Career Prospects: Recreation Manager, Theme Park Manager, Sports Event Coordinator, Resort Activities Manager.

These programs are offered at various levels, including Diploma, Bachelor’s, and Master’s, providing pathways for students at different stages of their academic journey. The choice of program should align with your interests, academic background, and long-term career goals. For a broader perspective on top majors in Malaysia, you can refer to our article: Top Majors to Study in Malaysia for International Students: High-Demand Fields.

Leading Universities for Hospitality & Tourism in Malaysia

Malaysia is home to several universities and colleges that offer excellent Hospitality & Tourism programs, many of which are recognized for their academic rigor, industry relevance, and state-of-the-art facilities. When choosing where to study hospitality in Malaysia, international students should consider the university’s specialization, facilities, faculty expertise, and industry linkages. Here are some of the leading institutions for Hospitality & Tourism studies:

Taylor’s University

Overview: Taylor’s University, located in Subang Jaya, Selangor, is widely regarded as a premier institution for hospitality and tourism education in Southeast Asia. Its School of Hospitality, Tourism & Culinary Arts (SHTCA) is internationally recognized and has strong industry partnerships.

Strengths:

International Recognition: SHTCA is ranked among the top hospitality and leisure management schools globally.
Practical Training: Extensive practical training facilities, including a fully operational hotel (Taylor’s Lakeside Campus Hotel), culinary labs, and fine dining restaurants.
Industry Partnerships: Strong collaborations with leading hotels, resorts, and tourism organizations for internships and career placements.
Diverse Programs: Offers a wide range of programs from Diploma to Master’s in hospitality, tourism, and culinary arts. For more details, see our profile: Taylor’s University: Innovative Education and Industry-Ready Graduates.

Sunway University

Overview: Sunway University, located in Sunway City, offers a range of hospitality and tourism programs through its School of Hospitality and Service Management. The university benefits from its strong links with the Sunway Group, a leading Malaysian conglomerate with extensive interests in hospitality, leisure, and tourism.

Strengths:

Industry Integration: Direct access to Sunway Group’s hotels, theme parks, and convention centers for practical training and internships.
Global Partnerships: Collaborations with international institutions like Le Cordon Bleu for culinary arts programs.
Vibrant Campus Life: Located within a thriving integrated township, offering a dynamic student experience. For more on Sunway University, refer to our profile: Sunway University: Your Gateway to Global Education in Malaysia.

UCSI University

Overview: UCSI University, with its main campus in Kuala Lumpur, has a well-regarded Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management. It is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and its unique Co-operative Education Programme.

Strengths:

Experiential Learning: Strong focus on hands-on training and practical application of knowledge through its Co-operative Education Programme, providing structured work placements.
Industry Exposure: Provides students with valuable industry experience through partnerships with leading hospitality establishments.
Diverse Programs: Offers programs in hospitality management, culinary arts, and event management.

HELP University

Overview: HELP University, with campuses in Kuala Lumpur and Subang Bestari, offers hospitality and tourism programs through its Faculty of Business, Economics and Accounting. HELP is known for its strong academic quality and international partnerships.

Strengths:

Academic Rigor: Strong theoretical foundation combined with practical application.
International Linkages: Collaborations with international universities, offering dual degree options.
Career-Focused: Programs designed to equip students with skills for immediate employment.

Management and Science University (MSU)

Overview: Management and Science University (MSU), located in Shah Alam, Selangor, offers programs in hospitality and tourism through its Faculty of Hospitality and Creative Arts. MSU emphasizes industry-focused education and entrepreneurial development.

Strengths:

Industry-Driven Curriculum: Programs are developed with input from industry experts to ensure relevance.
Practical Exposure: Strong focus on practical training and internships.
Global Mobility: Opportunities for student exchange and international exposure.

Limkokwing University of Creative Technology

Overview: Limkokwing University, known for its creative and innovative approach to education, offers programs in tourism and hospitality through its Faculty of Global Business & Management. It focuses on developing creative and entrepreneurial professionals for the global industry.

Strengths:

Creative Approach: Integrates creativity and design thinking into business and management studies.
Global Network: Campuses and partnerships worldwide, offering international exposure.
Industry-Relevant: Programs designed to meet the demands of the global tourism and hospitality sectors.

These universities represent some of the best options for international students seeking a high-quality hospitality and tourism education in Malaysia. Each offers unique strengths and specializations, allowing students to choose a program that best fits their academic and career goals. For a broader perspective on top universities in Malaysia, you can refer to our article: Best Universities in Malaysia for International Students: A Comprehensive Guide.

Admission Requirements for International Students

To study hospitality in Malaysia as an international student, you will need to meet specific academic and English language proficiency requirements. These requirements can vary slightly between universities and programs, but generally follow a common framework.

Academic Qualifications

For undergraduate Hospitality & Tourism programs, applicants typically need to possess a recognized pre-university qualification with strong grades. Common accepted qualifications include:

A-Levels: Good passes in relevant subjects.
International Baccalaureate (IB): A strong overall score.
STPM (Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia): Equivalent to A-Levels, with good grades.
Foundation/Matriculation Programs: Completion of a recognized foundation or matriculation program with a strong GPA.
Other International Equivalents: Qualifications from your home country that are recognized by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the respective university. This often includes a high school diploma with a strong academic record.

For postgraduate Hospitality & Tourism programs (Master’s and PhD), a relevant Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or Master’s degree (for PhD) from a recognized university with a strong academic record in Hospitality & Tourism or a related field is required. Research-based programs will also typically require a research proposal.

English Language Proficiency

As most Hospitality & Tourism programs in Malaysia are conducted in English, international applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. The most commonly accepted tests and their typical minimum scores are:

IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall band score of 5.5 to 6.5, depending on the university and program.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A score of 60-92 (Internet-based Test) or 500-580 (Paper-based Test), depending on the university and program.
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): A score of 47-65, depending on the university and program.

Some universities may waive the English language proficiency requirement if you have completed your previous degree in an English-medium institution or if you are from an English-speaking country. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements of your chosen school and program on their official website.

Specific Program Prerequisites

Some specialized programs, particularly in Culinary Arts, may require additional prerequisites such as a portfolio of work, an interview, or a practical assessment to evaluate your skills and passion for the field. Always check the specific program requirements carefully.

Career Prospects for Hospitality & Tourism Graduates in Malaysia

Graduating with a Hospitality & Tourism degree from a Malaysian university significantly enhances your career prospects, both within Malaysia and across the dynamic global tourism industry. The skills and knowledge gained from these programs are highly valued by employers across various sectors, leading to diverse career paths and opportunities for advancement.

Overview of Industries Employing Hospitality & Tourism Graduates in Malaysia

Malaysia’s thriving tourism and hospitality sector offers a wide range of industries where graduates can find fulfilling careers. Key industries include:

Hotels and Resorts: From luxury international chains to boutique hotels, graduates can work in various departments such as front office, food and beverage, sales and marketing, human resources, and operations.
Travel and Tour Operations: Roles in travel agencies, tour operators, and online travel platforms, focusing on destination management, tour planning, and customer service.
Event Management: Planning, organizing, and executing corporate events, conferences, exhibitions, weddings, and festivals for event management companies or in-house departments.
Food and Beverage Services: Management roles in restaurants, cafes, catering companies, bars, and clubs, overseeing operations, service quality, and profitability.
Airlines and Airports: Customer service, ground operations, cabin crew, and management roles within airlines and airport authorities.
Theme Parks and Attractions: Operations, guest services, marketing, and management positions in amusement parks, water parks, and other tourist attractions.
Cruise Lines: Opportunities to work on international cruise ships in various hospitality roles, offering a global career experience.
MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Industry: Specialized roles in managing large-scale business events and conventions.

Job Roles and Potential Career Paths

A Hospitality & Tourism degree prepares graduates for a variety of roles across different functional areas. Common job titles and career paths include:

Hotel Manager/Assistant Hotel Manager: Overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, ensuring guest satisfaction and profitability.
Front Office Manager: Managing reception, reservations, and guest services.
Food & Beverage Manager: Supervising restaurant, bar, and catering operations.
Executive Chef/Sous Chef: Leading kitchen operations, menu development, and food preparation.
Event Manager/Coordinator: Planning and executing events, managing logistics, and coordinating with vendors.
Tour Manager/Operator: Designing and leading tours, managing travel logistics, and ensuring client satisfaction.
Travel Consultant: Advising clients on travel plans, booking flights, accommodation, and tours.
Guest Relations Manager: Ensuring high levels of guest satisfaction and handling guest feedback.
Revenue Manager: Optimizing pricing and inventory to maximize revenue for hotels or airlines.
Marketing Executive (Hospitality/Tourism): Developing and implementing marketing strategies for hospitality businesses or destinations.

Opportunities for Internships and Industrial Training

Malaysian hospitality and tourism programs often integrate compulsory internships or industrial training periods, providing students with invaluable real-world experience. These placements allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge, develop practical skills, and build professional networks within the industry. Many universities have strong partnerships with leading hotels, resorts, and tourism organizations, facilitating these crucial learning experiences. Successful internships often lead to full-time employment offers upon graduation.

Entrepreneurship Opportunities

With a strong foundation in hospitality and tourism, graduates also have the option to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Malaysia’s supportive ecosystem for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) provides opportunities to start businesses such as boutique hotels, specialized tour agencies, catering services, or event management firms. The practical skills and industry insights gained during their studies can be directly applied to launching and managing their own successful businesses.

Cost of Studying Hospitality & Tourism in Malaysia

One of the most attractive aspects of pursuing a Hospitality & Tourism degree in Malaysia for international students is the relatively affordable cost compared to many Western countries. This affordability extends to both tuition fees and living expenses, making a high-quality education accessible to a wider range of students.

Tuition Fees for Hospitality & Tourism Programs

Tuition fees for Hospitality & Tourism programs in Malaysia vary depending on the type of institution (public vs. private), the level of study (Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s), and the specific program and university. Generally, private universities and colleges, especially those with international affiliations or specialized practical facilities, tend to have higher fees than public universities.

Public Universities: For Bachelor’s degrees, tuition fees can range from approximately RM 10,000 to RM 25,000 per year (approximately USD 2,100 to USD 5,300). Postgraduate programs might be slightly higher.
Private Universities/Colleges: For Bachelor’s degrees, tuition fees typically range from RM 20,000 to RM 60,000 per year (approximately USD 4,200 to USD 12,700), with some specialized or internationally affiliated programs potentially exceeding this. Diploma programs are generally less expensive.

Living Expenses

The cost of living in Malaysia is also considerably lower than in many developed countries, allowing international students to manage their budgets effectively. Living expenses will vary based on lifestyle, accommodation choices, and the city you reside in. Major cities like Kuala Lumpur will generally be more expensive than smaller towns.

On average, international students can expect to spend between RM 1,500 to RM 2,500 per month (approximately USD 320 to USD 530) on living expenses, covering accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and personal expenses. For a comprehensive breakdown of living costs, please refer to our article: Living Expenses in Malaysia for Students: Budgeting Tips & Real Costs.

Scholarship Opportunities

Various scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students pursuing Hospitality & Tourism studies in Malaysia. These can be offered by the Malaysian government, individual universities, or external organizations. Scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or program-specific.

University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer their own scholarships to attract talented international students. These can cover partial or full tuition fees.
Industry Scholarships: Some hospitality and tourism organizations offer scholarships to students pursuing relevant fields, often with a commitment to work for the organization after graduation.

Conclusion

Pursuing a degree in Hospitality & Tourism in Malaysia is an excellent choice for international students seeking a dynamic and rewarding career in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. Malaysia offers a unique blend of high-quality education, affordability, and unparalleled practical exposure to a thriving tourism sector, making it an ideal destination for hospitality education.

From a diverse range of specialized programs—including Hotel Management, Tourism Management, Culinary Arts, and Event Management—to a growing list of top-tier institutions like Taylor’s University, Sunway University, and UCSI University, Malaysian institutions are well-prepared to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills demanded by the modern hospitality world. These institutions are committed to delivering industry-relevant curricula, fostering practical skills through extensive internships, and building strong connections with the corporate sector.

The admission requirements, while rigorous, are designed to attract a diverse and talented cohort, ensuring a rich learning experience. Moreover, the competitive tuition fees and reasonable cost of living, coupled with various scholarship opportunities, make a Hospitality & Tourism degree in Malaysia a financially viable and high-value investment for career advancement.

Graduates emerge with a globally recognized qualification, equipped with the strategic insights, operational capabilities, and cross-cultural understanding necessary to thrive in today’s complex service industry. The robust career opportunities across various sectors—from hotels and resorts to airlines and event management—further solidify Malaysia’s position as a prime location for Hospitality & Tourism studies.

An education in Hospitality & Tourism in Malaysia is more than just acquiring industry acumen; it’s about gaining a global perspective, adapting to diverse environments, and becoming part of a dynamic community that is actively shaping the future of travel and leisure. If you are ready to embark on a transformative educational journey and contribute to the vibrant world of hospitality, Malaysia stands as a promising destination to achieve your aspirations.