By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 13: Recognising the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) of Chinese independent schools will not threaten or weaken Malaysia, nor does it mean disloyalty to the country, as education remains paramount, especially for a nation that prides itself on its unique multilingual and multicultural identity.
Highlighting this during his ShallWeeTalk live session today, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng stressed that multilingualism has long been a defining strength of Malaysia and a key contributor to national integration, rather than a source of division.
“Malaysia has always been admired internationally for its multilingual and multicultural character. The ability to speak multiple languages strengthens the nation, benefits individuals and businesses, and enhances global competitiveness,” he said, adding that unity does not require uniformity.
Wee pointed out that Sarawak has long demonstrated that national unity can coexist with linguistic and cultural diversity, noting that Sarawak was the first to recognise the UEC.
He said the existence of Chinese-medium, Tamil and other vernacular schools does not undermine the status of Bahasa Malaysia as the national language.
“We fully acknowledge that Bahasa Malaysia is our national language and no one is denying that. But accepting and recognising other languages that have existed in our system for decades does not make anyone less loyal to Malaysia,” he said.
He emphasised that the Federal Constitution clearly guarantees the right to mother tongue education, describing Chinese independent schools as an expression of the constitutional spirit rather than a threat to national cohesion.
“Chinese schools are not educating outsiders. They are educating our fellow Sarawakians and Malaysians. They preserve heritage, identity and knowledge, just like any other school system,” he said.
On concerns that UEC recognition could erode national unity, Wee argued that respect, rather than rejection, is what truly strengthens integration.
“Minority language rights should be seen as a bridge for unity, not a threat. National unity is built through mutual respect,” he said, adding that a practical solution such as requiring UEC holders to pass Bahasa Malaysia could resolve long-standing concerns.
Wee also cautioned against politicising education, describing it as a fundamental issue that should be addressed through dialogue and negotiation.
“Education is the most important investment for any society. This issue can be resolved without turning it into a political weapon,” he said.
His remarks come amid renewed debate following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent statement reaffirming the constitutional position of Bahasa Melayu as the national language.
Anwar said any claims or demands involving religious, racial or ethnic sensitivities must take into account the Federal Constitution, stressing that the status of Bahasa Melayu would continue to be defended and upheld.
“As Prime Minister, the principle contained in the Federal Constitution regarding the position of Bahasa Melayu will continue to be defended and supported,” Anwar said, adding that while there have been calls to strengthen English or recognise the UEC, the national language must remain elevated as the primary language of knowledge mastered by all Malaysians.
He said only after the dignity and mastery of Bahasa Melayu are firmly strengthened can proposals to enhance other languages or recognise the UEC be considered.
Wee said these constitutional safeguards need not be at odds with recognising Malaysia’s linguistic diversity, particularly in Sarawak.
“We can protect and uphold the national language while respecting other languages that form part of our national character,” he said, expressing hope that the long-standing issue of UEC recognition would not remain a “never-ending last mile”.
“As we move towards becoming a stronger and more prosperous nation, no community should be left standing outside. They only seek for UEC to be recognised. Are they not Malaysians?,” he added. – DayakDaily
