Opening  Doors  to  Global Classrooms:   Inside   KL's   Private   &   International School Fair

1 November

By：Wang Yifei

Editor：Sun Yifan

Amid the steady hum of conversation and the flash of colourful school banners, hundreds of parents and students wandered through the exhibition halls of Mid Valley Exhibition Centre last weekend. Their eyes moved from one booth to another, collecting brochures promising "global learning," "Cambridge excellence," and "future-ready education." For many families, this was not just a weekend outing—it was a search for the right doorway to their children's future.

The 23rd Private & International School Fair in Kuala Lumpur, held on November 1 and 2, gathered over 60 schools and learning centres from across Malaysia and abroad. Organised by Mint Communications Sd n Bhd, the free-admission event aimed to help parents and students explore educational pathways that match their aspirations.

The record-certification scene of PISF (Source: PISF's official Instagram account)

From international schools offering British or American curricula to innovative local institutions integrating technology and sustainability, the event reflected the diversity of Malaysia's education landscape. According to the Malaysian

Ministry of Education, the number of international schools in the country has grown by more than 40% in the past decade, driven by rising middle-class families and increasing awareness of global education opportunities.

Participating schools (Photo by Wang Yifei)

"We want to give families access to options beyond what they see in their neighbourhood," said Dr. Michele Lam, one of the organisers from Mint Communications. "The fair is about empowerment—letting parents and students make informed choices."

For many visitors, the fair was an eye-opener. "I didn't know there were schools that focus on arts and media from such a young age," said Siti Aisyah binti Ahmad, a Form 4 student from Subang Jaya. "I'm interested in storytelling, so I'm looking for schools that support creativity."

School representatives showcased not just academic programmes, but holistic development. "We see education as a journey," said Matthew Ong, marketing manager of a British-curriculum school in Kuala Lumpur. "Our goal is to prepare students for both university and life—critical thinking, empathy, communication."

The fair's interactive workshops, student performances, and live counselling sessions added energy to the event. Children gathered around STEM booths, while parents filled consultation tables asking about tuition fees and scholarships.

As a media student, it was striking to observe how schools curated their brand through videos, live talks, and social media displays. Education marketing, it seems, is no longer about glossy brochures but emotional connection.

By sunset on Sunday, the exhibition halls had emptied, leaving behind scattered leaflets and hopeful plans. For parents, it was a weekend of decisions. For schools, a chance to share their vision. And for this student observer, it was a reminder that education, much like journalism, begins with curiosity—and thrives on connection.