IDRISSI International School vs Matahari International School
IDRISSI International School and Matahari International School are both in Johor Bahru, about 2 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE programmes, and Matahari International School also offers Cambridge International AS Levels and Cambridge A Levels. Published annual fees are close, at MYR 12,000 - 27,000 for IDRISSI International School and MYR 17,030 - 24,000 for Matahari International School. IDRISSI International School takes pupils from 4 to 16, and Matahari International School from 3 to 19. IDRISSI International School is the larger school, with around 500 pupils to Matahari International School's 200. Typical class sizes are 25 at IDRISSI International School and 20 at Matahari International School.
Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels
Pupils
Pupils
500
Pupils
200
Typical class size
Typical class size
25
Typical class size
20
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
2015
Opened
2013
Bus service
Bus service
No
Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
IDRISSI International School EduCity is located at Block A, EduCity Complex 2, Persiaran Canselor 1, EduCity Iskandar, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia. It is situated within the EduCity hub, a prominent education zone in southern Johor near the Malaysia–Singapore Second Link. The school is accessible via the EduCity free shuttle bus line (IP), with the nearest stop at Newcastle University of Medicine Malaysia, which is about a 6-minute walk from the school premises.
Location
Matahari International School is located in Taman Nusantara Prima, Iskandar Puteri, Johor. The area is a residential neighborhood with local shops and services, and is part of the Iskandar Malaysia development zone. It is accessible via major road networks connecting Johor Bahru and surrounding townships.
Stages
Stages
The school caters to students from Preschool (Kindergarten 1–3) for ages 4 to 6, Primary (Years 1–6) for ages 7 to 12, and Secondary (Years 7–11) for ages 13 to 16.
Stages
The school is structured into seven levels under the Viisaus Programme, starting from Early Years (ages 3–6) through to Stage 6 (ages 17–19). These roughly align with international equivalents such as Nursery/Reception, Primary (Stages 1–2), Lower Secondary (Stages 3–4), Upper Secondary (Stage 5), and Pre-University (Stage 6). The curriculum integrates Cambridge International content, preparing students for assessments such as IGCSE and A-Level.
School type
School type
IDRISSI is a co-educational day and boarding school.
School type
This is a co-educational, English-medium day school. It does not offer any boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
The school offers Personal Learning Assistant (PLA) services to students who need academic reinforcement. Additionally, the school also runs a Loving After-Care programme for children who remain on campus after school hours.
Additional learning support
The school provides additional academic support through its Functional Classroom model, which groups students by academic level rather than age. This allows targeted teaching for subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science theory. Support is structured rather than specialist, and the school does not describe itself as a dedicated SEN institution.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Country affiliation
The school does not have an official affiliation with any country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
IDRISSI is an Islamic school.
Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliation and operates as a secular institution.
School day structure
School day structure
Preschool students attend from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays.
Primary students have classes from 8:00 AM to 3:20 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
Secondary students follow the longest schedule, from 8:00 AM to 3:50 PM, Monday through Thursday, and 8:00 AM to 12:40 PM on Fridays.
School day structure
The exact start and end times of the school day at Matahari International School are not publicly published on the school’s official website.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school does not have a bus service.
Bus service details
A school transport service is available and managed by the school.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
One-Time Fees (Non-Refundable) Application Fee: RM 300 (payable upon submission of the application form) Registration Fee: RM 1,500 (due upon acceptance of placement offer)
Refundable Deposit Security Deposit: RM 5,000 (refundable upon withdrawal with required notice and without outstanding dues)
Annual Tuition Fees (Payable in full or in installments per term) Preschool (Kindergarten 1–2): RM 12,000 / year Primary (Grades 1–5): RM 22,800 / year Upper Primary (Grade 6): RM 24,000 / year Secondary (Grade 7–9): RM 25,800 / year Secondary (Grade 10–11 / IGCSE Level): RM 27,000 / year
Boarding (Optional for Secondary Students) Boarding Fee: RM 27,000 / year
Boarding Deposit: RM 2,000 (refundable)
Refund Policy The RM5,000 deposit is refundable only if a written withdrawal notice is given at least four (4) months in advance.
The deposit is refunded only if all school fees are fully paid and no outstanding dues exist.
If withdrawal notice is given after the term starts, no school fees will be refunded.
A RM200 administrative charge applies to all withdrawals.
Refunds (if eligible) are processed within two months via cheque
Payment Methods The school has no publicly information on payment methods.
Fee details
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Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
Boarding facilities are available at the Johor Bahru campus in EduCity Iskandar Puteri.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
A school uniform is required; uniforms are not included in the base tuition.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
A rooftop cafeteria is available at the Bukit Jelutong campus; meals are not included in tuition.
Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
GAINS Education Group is the parent company of IDRISSI International School. IDRISSI is part of the GAINS family, which includes Genius Aulad, Sekolah Tinta and Genius Care. The school is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited (Checkpoint for Primary, IGCSE for Secondary).
Governance and ownership
The Matahari International School is part of the Matahari Education Group within the VIM Education Group.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
IDRISSI International School offers a blended curriculum that combines the Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic education and eco-conscious learning.
Primary (Years 1–6) Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, Global Perspectives, ICT, and Physical Education. The curriculum focuses on foundational academic skills, critical thinking, and inquiry-based learning.
Secondary (Years 7–9) This stage uses the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum, which builds on primary knowledge and introduces more subject specialization. Subjects typically include English, Mathematics, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), History, Geography, and ICT.
Upper Secondary (Years 10–11) Students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). At this level, students take core and elective subjects based on their interests and strengths. These will include English as a First or Second Language, Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Sciences, and elective options like Business Studies, Accounting, and Global Perspectives.
Curriculum details
Matahari International School follows the Viisaus curriculum model alongside the Cambridge International Curriculum. The school begins with the Viisaus Early Years Program (ages 3–6), followed by Stages 1 to 6 (ages 6–19), aligned with Cambridge checkpoints. Students take the Cambridge Primary Checkpoint at Stage 2, followed by IGCSE in Stage 5 (ages 15–17) and A-Level qualifications in Stage 6 (ages 17–19). Functional Classrooms focus on English, Mathematics, Malay, Chinese, and Science (theory), while Home Classrooms support project-based learning in subjects like global perspectives, geography, and arts. Lessons are delivered using a mix of traditional and collaborative methods. Science labs, art rooms, and music spaces support subject-specific instruction.
The school implements the Value Education Programme (VEP), a character-building initiative emphasizing social-emotional skills. Through activities like organizing charity bake sales and visiting charitable homes, students cultivate empathy, self-awareness, and meaningful connections with others.
Social & emotional learning
Social and emotional learning is integrated into classroom activities and project-based learning, especially through Home Classrooms, where students engage in teamwork, discussion, and collaborative tasks. The school encourages peer interaction across age groups and promotes self-expression through creative and hands-on subjects. Teachers oversee group dynamics and guide students in developing interpersonal skills. SEL is further supported by counseling services available on campus. These services help students reflect on their behavior, relationships, and decision-making. The school places emphasis on age-appropriate personal development alongside academic instruction.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school currently does not offer any services for special needs children.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Matahari International School does not operate as a specialist SEN school.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not have any publicly available information on EAL
English as an additional language
English is the medium of instruction at the school, and it offers English as a subject within the Functional Classroom structure. Students with limited English proficiency are supported through targeted language classes and smaller group teaching.
While the school supports EAL learners, there is no indication of a specialized EAL department or full immersion program.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
IDRISSI's emphasis on a nurturing environment, combined with its nature-based learning approach, suggests a commitment to students' mental well-being. The school's eco-friendly setting and holistic educational philosophy aim to provide a calming and supportive atmosphere conducive to mental health.
Mental wellbeing
The school provides access to in-house psychological counselling, which students can seek for academic stress, emotional challenges, or personal development. Career and academic guidance services also support students during transitional stages such as exam preparation and course selection.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The school does not have publicly available information on their latest safeguarding policies.
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
IDRISSI International School operates across two campuses: Setia Alam, Selangor, and EduCity Iskandar Puteri, Johor, with boarding facilities at EduCity. The Setia Alam campus sits in a green, eco-friendly area and provides an Islamic, homely learning environment. The Johor campus is part of a larger eco-learning ecosystem and includes world-class boarding facilities. Cambridge Assessment International Education is integrated into the school's framework, with learning infused with moral and environmental values.
Facilities overview
Matahari International School - Iskandar Puteri is located at No. 2-18, Jln Iskandar Putri 1/4, Tmn Nusantara Prima, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor. The school facilities include Art Room, Canteen, Class Room, Computer Room, Laboratory, Lecture Hall, Library, Matahari Hall, Meeting Room, Multimedia Tutorial Room, Reception, Recycle Room, Security Room, and Visitor Lounge.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The Setia Alam campus offers basketball, netball and futsal courts, a dedicated archery area, and a multipurpose hall for various sports. The Bukit Jelutong campus features an archery range and multiple courts for netball, futsal and volleyball. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus shares EduCity's facilities for sports and recreation, including campus-level recreational spaces. Extracurricular spaces emphasize practical, outdoor physical activities as part of the learning environment.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Setia Alam campus provides Science Lab, Library, Art Lab and Computer Lab, along with a Rooftop Cafeteria, Garden and Petting Farm that support a nature-based approach to study. The Setia Alam campus uses an environment designed to blend Islamic values with modern academic spaces. The Johor Bahru EduCity campus offers air‑conditioned classrooms, auditoriums, a multipurpose hall, dining area, Art Studio, Science Lab, Computer Lab, Library, Garden and Mini Farm, with access to EduCity facilities. IDRISSI is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Academic facilities
The school provides Class Rooms, a Computer Room, a Laboratory, a Lecture Hall, and a Library.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities include the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE), Hiking and Camping Club, Futsal Club, Graphic Design & Creative Club, Archery, Mandarin classes and Little Tahfiz, among others.
Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
IDRISSI International School was established in 2015 by a group of parents who envisioned an educational environment where students could learn joyfully beyond traditional classroom confines. Emphasizing a nature-based, eco-Islamic approach, the school integrates Cambridge International Curriculum with Islamic values and environmental consciousness. Following the success of its Setia Alam campus, IDRISSI expanded to EduCity, Iskandar Puteri, Johor, in September 2022.
History
Matahari International School was established in 2013 under the Matahari Education Group, which also manages various educational institutions in Malaysia. The school offers the Cambridge International Curriculum, catering to students from Early years to Year 13. It is part of the VIM Education Group, which includes Viisaus and IEM educational systems.
Community
Community
The IDRISSI community is built on shared Islamic values such as compassion, humility, and environmental stewardship. Activities like caring for farm animals, engaging in recycling programs, and supporting underprivileged groups are core parts of school life. These not only build student character but also contribute to a sense of collective responsibility and kindness within the school.
Community
The school fosters a vibrant community through various events and activities. Students participate in cultural celebrations, field trips, and community service projects. For instance, students have engaged in activities like exploring local farms, which promote hands-on learning and community involvement.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
IDRISSI does not formally operate a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), however it emphasizes strong school-home communication. Parents are regularly invited to participate in school activities such as open days, workshops, and celebrations.
Parent teacher association
There is no publicly available source (as of now) that explicitly confirms the existence or structure of a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at Matahari International School.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school is accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Cambridge Checkpoint is offered for Primary School students and Cambridge IGCSE is offered for Secondary School students.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
IDRISSI emphasizes sustainability and environmental values, with features such as an eco garden and mini farm. The school was recognized with the PEKA Eco Primary Education Award in 2016.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The school offers the Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS) and The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Johor Bahru offers Nature-based Preschool, Primary, and Secondary programs with Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC). The Johor Bahru campus provides boarding facilities and has a 10:1 student–teacher ratio. Shuttle service is available, with pickups from Setia Alam and Bukit Jelutong. The EduCity Iskandar Johor Bahru campus is located in EduCity Iskandar, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the primary language of instruction. Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin are available as language options. IDRISSI International School is Cambridge Assessment International Education accredited.
Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The school uses English, Malay, Arabic, and Mandarin in instruction.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
PEEAM EduAwards 2024: IDRISSI was honored as the Elite Winner for Best International School of the Year by the Private Education Entrepreneurs Association of Malaysia.
Motherhood Choice Awards 2023: The school received the Best Private International School award, acknowledging its positive contributions to the motherhood community.
Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2022: Recognized in the Corporate Excellence Category for the Education & Training Industry.
The BrandLaureate SME’s Best Brands Awards 2019–2020: Awarded in the Education – International School category.
5-Star Recognition for Quality Standard: Received from the Ministry of Education in 2018 for Private Education Institutions.
Best Islamic International School: Awarded by BabyTalk MamaPapa Magazine in 2015, 2016, and 2018.
The Best 10 International Schools in Malaysia 2018: Recognized by The Knowledge Review Magazine.
Awards
Excellence in Early Childhood Education Award (2024): In June 2024, the head teachers of four branches of Tadika Matahari, affiliated with Matahari International School, received this award. It recognizes outstanding contributions to early childhood education in Malaysia
Accreditations
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): IDRISSI is an accredited Cambridge International School, offering the Cambridge curriculum from Primary Checkpoint to IGCSE levels. IDRISSI International School
Junior Award Scheme for Schools (JASS): The school implements the JASS program, a progressive learning initiative designed to develop students' personal growth and achievement.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award: IDRISSI offers this globally recognized youth development program, encouraging students aged 14–24 to engage in personal and social development activities.
Eco-Schools Programme: IDRISSI is recognized as the world’s first Islamic International School registered with the WWF Eco-Schools organization, promoting environmental and sustainable education.
Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): Matahari International School is accredited by CAIE, enabling it to offer the Cambridge curriculum, including IGCSE and A-Level qualifications. This accreditation ensures that the school's programs meet international educational standards.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1.Campus Tour or Open Week Participation Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a personalized school tour or participate in the school's Open Week events. These visits offer a firsthand experience of IDRISSI's eco-friendly campus, nature-based learning environments, and boarding facilities.
2.Application Submission To formally apply, submit the completed application form along with the required documents, which typically include:
Child’s passport copy Birth certificate Academic reports Vaccination records A recent passport-sized photograph
This documentation assists the admissions team in assessing eligibility and determining appropriate placement, especially for students transitioning from different educational systems.
3.Assessment and Trial Classes Preschool Applicants (Ages 4–6): Children are invited to participate in a trial class at the Nature-Based Preschool, where their social, emotional, communication, and motor skills are observed. It's important to note that all preschoolers must be toilet-trained before joining the school.
Primary and Secondary Applicants: Students undergo an entry assessment tailored to their age group. This assessment evaluates academic readiness and helps in appropriate class placement. The admissions team will provide details about the assessment schedule and format.
4.Curriculum Consultation After assessments, the admissions team will discuss the Cambridge International Curriculum pathway with you, ensuring it aligns with your child's academic background and future aspirations. They will also explain how Islamic studies and eco-values are integrated into the curriculum.
5.Fee Structure and Enrollment Confirmation Review the detailed fee structure, which includes tuition fees, registration fees, deposits, and any additional costs. Once you agree to the terms, you'll be guided through the payment process to secure your child's enrollment. The admissions team will also provide information on uniforms, transportation options, and other logistical details.
6.Final Enrollment and Orientation Upon successful completion of the above steps, your child's enrollment will be confirmed. The school will share orientation schedules, academic calendars, and other essential information to ensure a smooth transition into the IDRISSI community.
Admissions
1. Attend an Open Day or Schedule a Visit: The school regularly hosts Open Days, providing an opportunity to explore the campus, meet teachers, and learn about the curriculum. If you cannot attend an Open Day, you can arrange a private visit by contacting the school at +607 510 2388 or via WhatsApp at +6016 753 8088.
2. Submit an Application Form: Complete the appropriate registration form based on your child's educational level (Primary, Secondary, or A-Level). These forms are available on the school's official website.
3. Provide Required Documentation: Along with the application form, submit necessary documents such as your child's birth certificate, previous school reports, and any other relevant records. The admissions team will inform you of the specific documents needed.
4. Await Admission Decision: After reviewing the application and documents, the school will communicate their decision. If accepted, you'll receive further instructions on enrollment and orientation procedures.
Scholarships
Scholarships
The school does not have any publicly available information on this.
Scholarships
The school offers financial aid options, including scholarships, bursaries, and study loans. These are designed to support students who demonstrate academic excellence or require financial assistance. Details about eligibility criteria and application procedures can be obtained by contacting the school's admissions office.
Waitlist
Waitlist
IDRISSI International School operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, due to high demand, especially in certain grade levels, a waitlist may be implemented when classes reach capacity. Families on the waitlist are prioritized based on the date of application submission and are notified promptly when a spot becomes available. It's advisable to apply early and maintain regular communication with the admissions team to stay informed about your application status.
Waitlist
Matahari International School does not publicly disclose a formal waitlist or pool system.
