The debate over the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) in Malaysia has reignited in recent months, sparking discussions across political, educational, and social spheres.
Any demands that touch on religious, racial, and ethnic sensitivities must take into account the position of the national language in the country’s constitution, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister broke his silence on the UEC debate yesterday (12 December), stating that as Prime Minister, he will continue to uphold and defend the principles contained in the Federal Constitution regarding the status of the Malay language.
“This is Malaysia, and the official language is Bahasa Melayu.”
Speaking to the media after Friday prayers in Langkawi, Kedah, PMX acknowledged the various demands regarding language, as some want to emphasise English, while others seek recognition of the UEC.
“This is Malaysia. The Malay language is the official language, and anyone attempting to promote another language must remember that the Malay language must be elevated as the language of knowledge, mastered by all Malaysians.”
The UEC is a high school examination for Chinese independent schools in Malaysia, recognised internationally but not by the Federal Government for entry into public universities.
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He further stressed that the dignity of the Malay language must be elevated in accordance with its position in the country’s constitution.
“Of course, there will be room for proposals to recognise the UEC, but only when the principles and questions have been addressed.”
“They must master the Malay language, and this is also the condition we impose on international schools. They can use English as a medium but must pass and master the Malay language,” he shared.
Anwar added that any proposal focusing on one language or one race while ignoring the country’s main language could lead to problems.
He reminded any party submitting language-related proposals that they must comply with constitutional principles, with priority given to mastery of the Malay language.
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