Fostering Adjustment: The Role of International Student Societies in Malaysian Higher Education

Abstract

International students often face greater challenges than local students during their time on campus, particularly in academic, psychological, and sociocultural aspects of adjustments. These problematic issues make them more fragile and vulnerable compared to their local friends. In Malaysia, majority public universities established an International Student Society which provides platforms for connection, event organization and support international student development. This study explores the role of International Student Society in supporting international student’s adjustment, the activities organized and international students’ perception on their participation in activities in supporting academic, psychological, and sociocultural aspect of adjustment. Using qualitative research approach, this study used document analysis and semi-structured interviews involved two group of participants consisted of six international students and six International Student Society officers from six public universities in Malaysia. Result shows that International Student Society are responsible in managing five aspects of international students including organize activities to provide support in term of academic, psychological and sociocultural aspects. International students’ participation in activities foster connections and enhances adjustment in three key areas: academic, psychological, and sociocultural. In summary, the presence of International Student Society at each public university in Malaysia is a crucial strategy for supporting international students' adjustment in the host country.