If you get to know your seniors before matriculation dinner, you might be able to borrow one from them, or even get a second hand one going cheap. It is much cheaper to buy books from Malaysia but most boo ks might only be required for a year. Thus, it is advisable to get it off from a senior. Before you make any purchases, do make sure you really need the book. Ask around if it is necessary.
Most libraries are quite well equipped and have quite a number of copies of popular books.
It is much pricier in the UK though. A better range and little bit cheaper foodstuff can be obtained in London Chinatown at Leicester Square. A computer here would be at a comparable price from back home if you do know how to assemble it by parts, else it would be cheaper to buy one back home. Do take into consideration of repairs though,if it is bought here, there should be no problem in getting it repaired, especially if it is still under warranty. Radios, walkmans, discmans, and MD players are more expensive to buy in the UK, so it is advisable to bring them from home.