Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia with a total landmass of 329,847square kilometres (127,355sqmi). The population stands at over 27 million.
The country is located near the equator and experiences a tropical climate. Peninsular Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsular Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares the border with Brunei.
Malays make up the majority of the population and are the predominant group with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest.
Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national language of the country with English being widely spoken. Most Malaysians are able to converse in various languages and dialects.
JOHOR
Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia is located in Batu Pahat, one of the major districts in the state of Johor, the southern gateway and third largest state in Peninsular Malaysia.
Johor gets its name from the Arabic word, Jauhar meaning 'precious stones'. Prior to that, it was known as Ujung Tanah which means 'land's end' in Malay, due to its location at the end of the Malay Peninsula. It is also an apt name, as the southern-most tip of Asia is located at Tanjung Piai, Johor. The state derived its status as the country's Southern Gateway after it was connected to Singapore through the 1056m-long Causeway which was completed in 1923 after four years of construction.
BATU PAHAT
Batu Pahat, which is also known as Bandar Penggaram is one of the districts in the state of Johor. It is about 239 km from the city of Kuala Lumpur. The nearest towns are Muar and Kluang which are 50 km northwest and 52 km northeast respectively. The cities of Johor Bahru and Singapore are located about 80 km to the south east.
The name Batu Pahat means 'chiseled rock' in Malay Language. The origin of this name can be traced back to a legend in the 15th century; when the invading Siamese troops were chiseling rocks at a rocky spot, in hope to get fresh water during their retreat. This ancient landmark which gives name to the town can still be found in the coastal village of Minyak Beku. Batu Pahat which has a population of more than 540,000 is the second major town in Johor state after Johor Bahru.
Shopping in Batu Pahat
Batu Pahat is a city with shopping venues that offers more value for your money, compared to other cities in Malaysia due to its lower cost of living.
Local Attractions
The city of Batu Pahat has plenty of exciting places to offer ranging from historical landmark, lively entertainment centres, shopping complexes, recreational grounds and other natural beauty spots.
Among the notable historical landmark is the Batu Pahat city square which was renovated in the 1990s on the occasion of the city's centennial celebration. Sitting right in the middle of the square is the famous statue, which depicts a floating hand chiselling a rock. Surrounding the square are some old historical government offices remnants of the colonial era.
Another interesting place is the recreational lake, named Tasik Y which is a favourite place for morning walk and exercise for the townsfolk. At night, Batu Pahat Walk located at Jalan Rahmat where dozens of food stalls offers tasty local cuisines is other hotspots among the townsfolk.
Living Cost
It is difficult to estimate accurately how much it will cost you to live in Batu Pahat, Johor as this will be affected by your lifestyle and subjects you study (for some subjects you may need to buy special equipment)
The estimated total cost for a month is between RM 1,300 to RM 1,500 for one student living in a self-catered accommodation. This is approximately equivalent to USD400 –USD500 per month.
In general, University accommodation is usually cheaper as the costs of electricity and water are included in your acommodation fees. However, if you are looking to stay in a private accommodation it would cost you more as the monthly rental does not include the costs of electricity, gas, water and telephone charges .
International Student Services
Our university is committed to helping and supporting you throughout your stay in UTHM. You will receive support and advice from the moment you apply until your graduation, ensuring you get the most from your time in the University.
The International Office provides general information and advice on issues, such as immigration, welfare and other general academic matters.
Arrival in Malaysia
Major international flights will arrive from oversea destinations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang which is approximately 300km from UTHM Campus. Upon arrival you may book a taxi from the airport lounge straight to UTHM. Taxis from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to UTHM range between USD80 (day) and USD100 (night).
The international flights to Johor will transit in Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) for a domestic flight transfer to Sultan Ismail International Airport, Johor Bahru, which is approximately 80km from UTHM Campus. Taxis from the Sultan Ismail International Airport to UTHM range between USD40 (day) and USD50 (night).
Adjusting To Life in Malaysia
If this is your first time in Malaysia, you may need some time to adjust to a new living and study environment especially due to Malaysia’s unique customs and cultures. However, there are a number of tips to assist you to settle down to a more familiar surroundings.
Academic Advisor/Counselor
All students will be assigned to an Academic Advisor during their study in the University to assist you with issues and problems related to your academic progress. You may consult your Academic Advisor during the normal semester period based on their availability. More information can be obtained from your Faculty General Office.
Orientation Program
Student Orientation Week is a compulsory program held during the first week after registration for all new students to take part. The program will involve a number of activities to familiarise new students with the university, it’s surrounding as well as information on services offered at the university.
Open Your Mind
It is important for you to be emotionally prepared when arriving in a new environment far from your family and your home country. You must be ready to acclimatize to the new customs and cultures in Malaysia which may be different from what you are familiar with.
Family Support
It is important that you maintain regular contact with your family members to update them with your study and well-being while in Malaysia.
