STRATEGI DIPLOMASI PENDIDIKAN MALAYSIA MELALUI PROGRAM INTERNATIONAL STUDENT MOBILITY PROGRAM (ISEP) UNTUK MEMPROMOSIKAN GEOPARK LANGKAWI

Abstract

The importance of equitable education worldwide has led to the emergence of educational diplomacy as a strategic instrument to achieve this goal. Various countries, including Malaysia, have begun to utilize educational diplomacy. In this context, the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) is a concrete manifestation of Malaysia's educational diplomacy, which also serves to promote Langkawi Geopark as an international educational tourism destination. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of Malaysia's education diplomacy strategy through the ISEP program in introducing and promoting Langkawi Geopark on the global stage. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method with primary data collection through direct interviews with ISEP organizers and Langkawi Geopark managers, supported by secondary data from relevant literature and documents. The results show that educational diplomacy through the ISEP program provides various benefits, both for students as agents of cultural and knowledge exchange, for local communities in capacity building and sustainable tourism promotion, and for Malaysia in strengthening its positive image as a country that actively integrates education, culture, and tourism in its foreign diplomacy strategy