How many international engineering students does SAMENTA say exist?

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SAMENTA Estimates Fewer Than 20,000 International Students in Engineering and Technical Fields

The Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA) estimates that the total number of international students pursuing engineering and technical studies in Malaysia is less than 20,000. This figure forms a key part of the association's argument for allowing international graduates to remain and work in the country to address significant talent shortages.
Impact of Talent Shortages on Industries

SAMENTA highlights that the lack of skilled personnel, particularly engineers and technicians, is a severe constraint on industry growth. For instance, SAMENTA estimates that Penang alone faces a deficit of 50,000 engineers and technicians, impeding progress in crucial sectors like semiconductors, manufacturing, and logistics.
Proposed Solution and Potential Intake

The association proposes that allowing international graduates to work post-studies would provide a much-needed influx of talent. Even if only a quarter of the estimated less than 20,000 international engineering and technical students graduate annually, and a mere 10 per cent of those choose to stay, Malaysia could potentially absorb fewer than 700 additional engineers and technicians each year. SAMENTA argues this number is insufficient to displace local workers.
International Precedent and Competitiveness

SAMENTA points out that Malaysia would be aligning with other advanced economies such as Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Kingdom if it were to approve the long-standing industry call for post-graduation employment for international students in critical sectors. These countries actively attract and retain global talent, and SAMENTA suggests Malaysia must also consider such measures to remain competitive and prevent its own talent from being recruited elsewhere.

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How many international engineering students does SAMENTA say exist?

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