Australia prioritises education investment in Southeast Asia with Monash University’s RM2.8 billion Malaysian campus, strengthening regional ties.
KUALA LUMPUR: Australia is prioritising greater investment in regional education as part of its Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced today.
He said the launch of Monash University Malaysia’s future campus in Kuala Lumpur marked another milestone in strengthening education partnership between Australia and Malaysia.
“This is indeed a bold development. It represents an exciting step forward for Monash University Malaysia and further strengthens the bonds between our two nations,” Albanese stated.
The Prime Minister spoke at the campus launch ceremony attended by Malaysian Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia Danielle Heinecke.
Monash University Malaysia will partner with TRX City to deliver its RM2.8 billion local investment into the new campus.
This investment is expected to contribute RM19.1 billion to the local economy over the next decade through direct investment and broader economic impacts.
Albanese noted that Malaysia hosts campuses of no less than four Australian universities, making it one of Australia’s largest transnational education partners.
Monash University Malaysia, established in 1998, was the first Australian university to open in Malaysia and the first international university from any nation to do so.
The campus has grown into Monash’s largest and most successful branch outside Australia, reaching over 11,000 students from 85 countries in 2024.
Albanese commended Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for sharing the belief that education uplifts both individuals and nations.
“Access to education is not just about assisting individuals. It is about lifting an entire nation and benefiting its economic, social and environmental progress,” he said.
Since 2019, Monash University Malaysia and ASEAN research collaboration has expanded across digital technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, climate change, green finance and healthcare. – Bernama
