Hello Nona,

You don't say how long you have had these teachers but it is normal for students to take a little time to switch on to a new accent in a foreign language. Is it possible for you to get a copy of the notes before the lesson so you can follow the lesson by reading and listening at the same time? When you don't have to concentrate too much on your ears they can adapt by themselves in time and soon you will realise that you don't need the notes.

Hope this helps

Bob

Nona... Many people suffer from the same problem. Here is a suggestion. Try to anticipate the vocabulary that they will be using during their talk. Think of all the words that apply to that topic. Perhaps this will help. Specific topics/subjects often have terms that are specific to that topic/subject. Maybe you can find a 'glossary of terms' related to that topic on the internet.

Well, Nona I had Malaysian friends since 1996 and I know what you mean :) I lived with 20 Malaysian girls in the dormitory, and it was the best time in my life. The more you listen to their accent, the easier it'll be :D So I totally agree with Bob.

To be honest, it's easier to understand their accent in English, than understanding the Yemini accent in Arabic (,") One of my best friends is Yemini and she is excellent in speaking my accent, but when it comes to me hearing her accent, my face usually turns like this O_0 ;)

I wish you good luck :D

Hi Nona!

As Bob told you it's a process I think to practice with your classmates could help you go much, taking into account they have a local accent to help you to get adapt quickly. 

Best regards