Malaysian Chinese Students in Taiwan: Decision Making Process and Career Development after Graduation
Date Issued
2016
Date
2016
Author(s)
Wong, Zee Ken
Abstract
Malaysia is traditionally the main source of Taiwan''s Overseas Chinese and foreign students. It is also the only country outside Greater China that recognises Chinese education as part of the national education system. Taiwan and Malaysia have similar Chinese communities, that enable Malaysian-Chinese students adapt quickly in Taiwan. Since 1951, more than 40,000 Malaysian-Chinese students graduated from various universities in Taiwan. After Malaysia and Taiwan government recognize each other’s university diplomas in July 2012, rapid growth of Malaysian students studying in Taiwan result. As most studies of student migration follow a “South-North” pattern, I argue that the migration of Malaysian-Chinese Student in Taiwan is a “deviant” case of student migration. Despite non-recognition by the Malaysian of Taiwan’s degree, they still choose to study in Taiwan, which does not enable them to obtain a globally “hegemonic” status in the production of knowledge. While returning to Malaysia, they may not fit into their homeland’s job market. Through in-depth interviews, this research examines the main reasons that inspire students to pursue their “Taiwan Dream”. It shows that Chinese Independent High Schools have helped to intivate the ethos of studying in Taiwan, while the popularity of Taiwanese cultural products, such as drama, pop music and books, heavily helped them to choose Taiwan as a destination. This research uses Social Remittance theory by Peggy Levitt, to analyse the trends for Malaysian-Chinese students studying in Taiwan. Senior students have tried to promote Taiwan’s higher education industry and Taiwan’s image of Malaysian Chinese communities. Finally, this study also include career development of returning students (back to Malaysia) or those who work in Singapore after graduation. It is found that Taiwan’s diplomas may pose employment barriers. However, they still appreciate the opportunity of completing tertiary education in Taiwan, and have helped to promote closer relations between Taiwan and Malaysia.
Subjects
Student Migration
Social Remittance
Malaysian-Chinese
“Taiwan Dream”
Talent Flow
Singapore
Type
thesis
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