The youth wing of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) has voiced full support for the recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), saying the move is not only part of Pakatan Harapan’s manifesto but is also grounded in the Federal Constitution’s protection of a multi-stream education system.
In a statement, DAP Socialist Youth (DAPSY) urged all parties, including its partners in the unity government, to engage in constructive and fact-based discussions on the issue. It also called for an end to what it described as “inaccurate information” that portrays UEC recognition as being at odds with the national language.
DAPSY clarified that recognising the UEC does not mean converting Chinese independent schools into government schools. Rather, it involves acknowledging the UEC as a credible academic qualification — similar to A-Levels — to allow its holders to apply for entry into public universities.
The youth wing stressed that the proposal concerns academic standardisation and access to higher education, and does not seek to alter the country’s national education philosophy.
Addressing a key criticism, DAPSY noted that the Chinese education community, including education group Dong Zong, has taken a positive stance on requiring a pass in the SPM Bahasa Melayu paper as a condition for UEC recognition.
This, it said, demonstrates respect for Malay as the national language and refutes claims that UEC recognition would undermine its status, describing such allegations as politically motivated and misleading.
DAPSY also reaffirmed its support for DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke’s position that recognising the UEC does not contravene the Federal Constitution.
It called on all stakeholders to assess the UEC based on its established academic standards and international recognition, adding that the qualification has produced many high-performing talents who could contribute to national development if retained within the country.
