Maszlee: Holistic solution for UEC recognition needed to avoid U-turns on any decision

– Bernama

MARANG: A holistic approach towards any decision to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) is needed to ensure that the national language and national unity are not threatened.

"We want to avoid unnecessary U-turns on the issue," Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik (pic) said during his visit to SK Seberang Marang here.

He said that the ministry needs to consider all angles before acting and listen to the opinions from various stakeholders who not only question the certificate as a necessary document to enrol into public universities, but are also concerned about upholding Bahasa Malaysia as the national language and the country's unity.

"There are various stakeholders including educationists – those that champion the national language as well as those who want a harmonious nation.

"We also need to ensure that in recognising the UEC, we are not selling out on these two aspects," he said.

"We cannot please everybody but I'm sure at least everyone will be relieved with a comprehensive solution to the issue," he said.

Recognising the UEC, a standardised test taken in Chinese independent schools, was among promises made in Pakatan Harapan's manifesto in the 14th General Election.