Imagine this: you’ve made the wonderful decision to call Sarawak your second home with the S-MM2H program, and now your kids are ready to dive into the local school scene. It’s like opening a brand new chapter in their adventure, filled with new friends and exciting learning experiences! But where do you even begin? Don’t worry, let’s take this journey together, step by step.
Here's a simple guide to help you through the process:
- First, Understand the Type of Pass Your Child Needs: Generally, if your child is under 21 and unmarried, they can come to Sarawak as your dependent under the S-MM2H program. However, if they plan to study here, especially in higher education, they will likely need a Student Pass. For younger children attending international schools, sometimes a “Permission to Study” stamp on their dependent pass might be sufficient.
- Choose the Right School: Sarawak has various educational options, including public schools, private schools, and international schools.
- International and Private Schools: These often have a more straightforward enrollment process for international students.7 You’ll usually need to contact the school directly to inquire about their admission procedures, required documents, and fees. They might also assist with the Student Pass application.
- Public Schools: For enrolling in government schools, the process might be a bit different for non-citizens. You might need to apply manually at the District Education Office (PPD) or the State Education Department (JPN).
- Gather the Necessary Documents: The documents required will vary depending on the school type and your child’s age, but here’s a general idea of what you’ll likely need:
- Your child’s passport (with a validity of at least 12-18 months) and a copy of all pages.
- Copies of your S-MM2H approval letter and pass.
- Your child’s birth certificate (possibly needing to be translated into English and certified).
- Passport-sized photographs of your child.
- A letter of acceptance or offer from the school in Sarawak.
- Your child’s previous academic records and transcripts (translated into English, if necessary).
- A health report for your child (you might need to get this done in Sarawak).
- Depending on the school and your child’s age, you might need to fill out a student pass application form (often provided by the school or the Education Malaysia Global Services – EMGS).
- Proof of payment of school fees.
- Possibly a personal bond (this is sometimes arranged by the educational institution).
- Contact the School Directly: Once you have a school in mind, get in touch with their admissions department. They will provide you with the specific application forms, a detailed list of required documents, and information about any entrance exams or interviews your child might need to go through.
- Apply for the Student Pass (if required): If your child needs a Student Pass, the school will often guide you through this process. For higher education institutions, the application is usually submitted online through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) system. The school will typically assist with this, and you might need to provide them with the necessary documents. For younger children, especially in international schools, they might help you obtain the “Permission to Study” stamp.
- Submit the Application and Attend Interviews/Assessments: Follow the school’s instructions for submitting the application. This might involve online submissions, mailing documents, or submitting them in person. Be prepared for your child to potentially have an interview or take an assessment test as part of the admission process.
- Receive the Offer and Accept: If your child’s application is successful, the school will issue an offer letter. You’ll need to formally accept this offer, usually by signing and returning the letter and paying any required fees.
- Visa Endorsement: Once the Student Pass is approved (if applicable), you will likely need to visit the immigration office to get your child’s passport endorsed with the student visa. The school will usually provide guidance on this step.
Important Points to Remember:
- Start Early: The school enrollment process can take time, especially when dealing with visa applications. It’s best to start the process well in advance of the intended start date.
- Check Official Websites: For the most up-to-date information on student pass requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the website of the Malaysian Immigration Department (https://www.imi.gov.my/) and the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) (https://educationmalaysia.gov.my/).
- Contact the Ministry of Education: If you have specific questions about enrolling in public schools as a foreigner, you can also try contacting the Ministry of Education in Sarawak for guidance.
- Insurance: Ensure your child has adequate medical insurance coverage throughout their stay in Sarawak for studies.
Enrolling your children in school in Sarawak is a significant step in making it your second home. By following these steps and working closely with the school authorities, you can ensure a smooth and successful process for your children’s education.
