KUALA LUMPUR: Instead of focusing solely on the United Examination Certificate (UEC), it is important to also consider other education certificates not recognised by the government, says Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir.
"We should not go overboard in a longstanding issue like this. For me, we should look into this aspect thoroughly.
"In my context, the question asked to me was regarding the accreditation of a certain certification.
"We should not just focus on one certification, we should also look at what other certification was a hurdle for our children to enrol in higher education institutions," said Zambry during his winding-up debate on the Supply Bill 2025 on Monday (Nov 11).
Zambry proposed a thorough study on unaccredited certificates in Malaysia.
"I suggest a thorough study on the current context, contents, and the curriculum.
"I hope such issues aren't discussed according to certain seasons to gain support," added Zambry.
Dr Wee Jeck Seng (BN-Tanjung Piai) had asked Zambry about his opinion regarding the Sarawak government’s move to recognise the UEC, allowing holders of the certificate to work in the civil service.
Earlier, Zambry noted that some UEC graduates are interested in furthering their studies in public universities.
"But, according to a circular by the Higher Education Ministry, the UEC certification can only be used for enrolment into private universities," added Zambry.
In February last year, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the government does not recognise the UEC, which is implemented in private Chinese secondary schools.
The UEC exam, taken by Form 6 students at Independent Chinese Schools, is considered equivalent to the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia by many foreign universities.
However, the UEC is not recognised by Malaysian public universities, forcing its graduates to either attend private universities or study abroad.
Only Sarawak recognised the UEC since 2014, allowing holders of the certificate to work in the state civil service and apply for scholarships from Yayasan Sarawak and for entry into the state-owned University of Technology Sarawak.
