LANGKAWI: Any calls for recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) and other languages must take into account the fact that Malay is the country's national language, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said that as Prime Minister, the position of the language as contained in the Federal Constitution would continue to be defended and supported.
"There have been various demands regarding language, some want to emphasise English, some want recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC).
"This is Malaysia. The Malay language is the national language and whoever is trying to bring the message of a language must remember that Malay must be elevated as the language of knowledge that is mastered by all Malaysians," he said after performing Friday prayers at Nur al-Hidayah Mosque, Kuah, here on Friday (Dec 12).
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the dignity of the Malay language must be elevated in accordance with its position in the Constitution and its mastery must be strengthened among the people.
He said that if the principles and issues have been implemented, then only proposals to strengthen the mastery of other languages and recognition of UEC can be put forward.
"If this is clear, to raise the issue of the need to increase the use of English, I agree. But Malay, the language of new technology, the language of AI (artificial intelligence), the language for knowledge, must be strengthened and there must be mastery of the language among all Malaysians.
"All streams… Chinese, Tamil, English, they must master the Malay language and this is also a condition we impose on international schools.
"They can use English as a medium (of instruction) but they must pass and master Bahasa Melayu," he said.
Anwar said any proposal that focuses on one language or race and leaves out the discussion on the country's main language could lead to problems.
Anwar also said any party that submits proposals on matters related to language must comply with the principles of the Constitution, with priority being the mastery of Malay.
DAP deputy chairman Nga Kor Ming had previously said the party would meet with the Prime Minister to discuss the recognition of the UEC. – Bernama
