Host families with AFS are voluntarily hosting, come from all kinds of socio-economic backgrounds and can be very different from each other. Where they live can also vary; some of them live in cities, while others live in more rural or suburban areas. AFS á Íslandi provides a preparation camp before departure (Undirbúningsnámskeið) and a reorientation-camp (Heimkomunámskeið) where students can share their experience with volunteers and other exchange students.
The students arrive in Kuala Lumpur, where volunteers welcome them to a training meeting. During this meeting, they receive initial information about life and culture in Malaysia, and a short introductory Malay language course and a visit to the capital are planned. Two more training meetings are held during the programme, one at a local level and one at a national level, to monitor the ongoing experience and discuss any difficulties. The final meeting, held shortly before departure, provides an opportunity to reflect on the experience and prepare the students for their return home.
AFS Malaysia can organise optional trips throughout the year, the cost of which is not included in the participation fee. AFS Malaysia also provides opportunities for students to experience traditions other than those of their host family, such as participating in celebrations like Chinese New Year, Christmas and Eid al-Adha.
Each student will be assigned a volunteer (liaison) to accompany them throughout their journey, helping them to understand the local reality and overcome difficulties in cultural adjustment.