Hold off on trips to France for now, MOHE tells Malaysian students in Europe amid riots

The ‘Egalite’ (‘Equality’) statue at Paris’ Place de la République, marked with black tears and graffiti reading ‘Golden youth’ on October 21, 2026, four days after riots and looting in nationwide protests against the high cost of living. All 462 Malaysian students in France are reported safe, says the Ministry of Higher Education. — AFP pic

First Published: Thursday, 22 Oct 2026 9:38 AM MYT

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 22 — All 462 Malaysian students currently pursuing their studies in France are reported to be safe, with none involved or directly affected by the demonstrations and riots occurring in several major cities across the country, including Paris.

The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) said that the academic activities of Malaysian students in that country are continuing as usual, while educational institutions in the affected areas have shifted to online learning.

According to the MOHE, its team – through the Education Attaché Office in Paris, in collaboration with the Foreign Ministry, the Embassy of Malaysia in Paris, and sponsoring agencies – is continuously monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of the Malaysian students.

“To date, there are 462 Malaysian students pursuing their studies in France, and no reports have been received regarding any students being involved or directly affected by the demonstrations and riots taking place in several major cities, including Paris,” the MOHE said in a statement.

In light of these developments, the MOHE has advised Malaysian students in France to avoid affected areas, comply with the instructions of local authorities and stay updated through official announcements.

At the same time, the MOHE has advised Malaysian students currently in other European countries to postpone any travel to France until the situation is brought back under control.

The ministry has emphasised that continuous monitoring will be carried out in collaboration with relevant parties to ensure the safety and well-being of all Malaysian students in France are upheld.

The MOHE also urges parents and families of the students to remain calm and obtain information from official sources, while ensuring that their children adhere to the safety guidelines issued by the Education Attaché Office in Paris and the Embassy of Malaysia in Paris.

Any inquiries or requests for further information may be directed via email to [email protected] or [email protected]. — Bernama