The international education scene in Malaysia has witnessed a significant breakthrough as Sunway International Schools (SIS) unveils a visionary collaboration with premier British institution, Magdalen College School (MCS) Oxford. This partnership introduces Cambridge International Programmes—delivered to the highest British standards—now made accessible locally.
Renowned for its distinguished heritage spanning over five centuries and ranked within the top 1% among more than 2,400 independent schools in the United Kingdom (UK), this collaboration unlocks unparalleled pathways to Oxbridge, the Ivy League, and beyond for students in Malaysia.
This partnership marks a major opportunity for academic development and knowledge-sharing between the two prestigious institutions, benefitting both students and educators alike.
“It fills us with immense pride to collaborate with an esteemed UK school, heralding a transformative chapter in our pursuit of providing world-class education. This significant milestone not only enhances our educational offerings but also paves the way for innovative approaches that will benefit students in both nations,” said Prof. Dato’ Elizabeth Lee, Group CEO of Sunway Education.
“We eagerly anticipate welcoming the first cohort of the A-Level programme at SIS—prestigiously endorsed and academically led by MCS—in August 2025,” she added.
MCS consistently delivers exceptional academic outcomes, as reflected in its 2024 A-Level results: 95% of grades were awarded at A*-B, 81% at A*-A, and 42% at A*. Additionally, 47 pupils—more than a quarter of the year group—achieved 3 As or more, while 19 students attained 4 As or more.
The school’s academic excellence is further complemented by outstanding pastoral care and celebrated achievements in sports, music, art, and drama. In the 2024 Parent Power rankings by The Sunday Times, MCS was ranked the seventh-best private school in the UK, based on A-Level, GCSE, and IB results from the summer of 2023.
Helen Pike, Master of MCS, said, “It is imperative that we collaborate with a counterpart that shares our unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation, while also embracing a holistic approach to nurturing creativity and leadership among students.”
“Sunway International Schools’ values align perfectly with ours, making this partnership—our first in Malaysia—a pivotal opportunity to broaden our educational horizons. It will allow pupils to engage with diverse perspectives and experiences, opening doors to a rich tapestry of cultural exchange and enriched learning,” she emphasised.
Through this collaboration, MCS will introduce the Waynflete Programme—an extended research initiative designed to prepare students for admission into top-tier universities in the UK. SIS students will also have the opportunity to attend a summer camp at MCS, offering first-hand exposure to British academic culture. To further elevate the British learning experience, bespoke spaces within the SIS campus will be purposefully designed to reflect the traditions and academic rigour of a premier British school.
Deputy Head of Mission, David Wallace, remarked, “This dynamic partnership between Sunway International School and Oxford’s Magdalen College School marks an exciting chapter in the UK–Malaysia transnational education journey. It reflects our shared commitment to fostering excellence, innovation, and cultural exchange—enriching the learning experience while nurturing our next generation of leaders.”
This collaboration also signifies a crucial step forward in the UK–Malaysia bilateral relationship, following a series of academic partnerships championed by Tan Sri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, founder of SIS. He is the first Malaysian to be conferred the title of Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE). Additionally, he established the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation (JCF)—the largest education-focused social enterprise in Malaysia—which governs Sunway Education Group comprising SIS and 22 other institutions.
