My 15-Day Study Abroad Experience in Kuala Lumpur
I came to Malaysia to study English for 15 days.
Before arriving, I felt both excited and a little nervous. Everything was new to me, and I wasn’t sure what to expect.
But looking back now, it turned out to be one of the most fun and fulfilling experiences I’ve ever had.
A Multicultural Environment Like No Other
One of the most fascinating things about Malaysia is its diversity.
There are people from many different backgrounds—Indian, Chinese, Malay, Arabic, European, and more.
Because of this, there is such a wide variety of food.
Every meal felt like a new adventure, and I truly enjoyed discovering different flavors from different cultures.
The weather was warm and comfortable as well, which made daily life very pleasant.
My Daily Life: School and Exploration
On weekdays, I went to language school. The atmosphere was very friendly and welcoming, which helped me relax and enjoy learning.
On weekends, I explored the city. I visited places like KLCC, Batu Caves, and the Botanical Gardens.
Every day was full of new discoveries, and I never felt bored.
More Than Just Studying
This experience was not only about studying English.
I had the chance to join a Hari Raya (Eid) home party, where I experienced local culture up close.
I also watched a futsal match, which was exciting and gave me another glimpse into everyday life in Malaysia.
Get Shiorik’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
These moments made my stay truly special.
Challenges and Growth
Of course, studying English was not always easy.
For me, speaking was the most difficult part.
I especially struggled with pronunciation, like clearly finishing sounds such as “f” and “g.”
However, my teacher patiently corrected me many times, and that really helped me improve.
At first, I felt shy and unsure, but little by little, I became more comfortable speaking.
Through many conversations, I gradually gained confidence.
A Cultural Difference That Surprised Me
One thing that surprised me was how people behaved in public spaces.
I often saw people watching TikTok, making video calls, or listening to music without earphones.
Interestingly, no one seemed to mind or complain.
Instead of focusing on others, people were simply focused on themselves.
It felt very different from Japan, and it made me realize how cultural norms can vary.
What I Learned
This experience taught me more than just language skills.
It taught me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new environments.
If you are thinking about studying abroad, I highly recommend starting early and taking small steps.
You don’t have to make a big decision all at once—just begin with what you can do now.
Gratitude
I am truly grateful to everyone who supported me during my stay—teachers, friends, and all the people I met along the way.
Thank you for making this experience so meaningful and unforgettable.
