Gabungan Mahasiswa Islam Se-Malaysia (Gamis) has outright rejected DAP’s campaign to push for the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) recognition, describing the move as “a step backwards” in Malaysia’s education reform.
Speaking after submitting a memorandum at DAP headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Gamis president Azamuddin Sahar said that the certification does not align with the nation’s educational foundations, including the Education Ministry’s syllabus and the National Education Policy.
Azamuddin (above, left) also claimed that UEC is unconstitutional, as it goes against Article 152 of the Federal Constitution, which stipulates that the Malay language should be emphasised as the national language.
“It is sufficient for this country to have a single, unified education system, namely by recognising SPM and STPM as pathways into various industries.
“I actually welcome the response from DAP, particularly when it is framed around facts and evidence, and we are open to engaging in dialogue with them,” he added.
Cease talks immediately
In its memorandum, Gamis demanded that all talks on UEC be ceased immediately, and for DAP to respect the national consensus and constitutional framework in education policy.
The group also demanded that the party provide a public explanation of the implications of their demands on national unity, arguing that this campaign is a deliberate tactic to divert attention from pressing issues plaguing the nation.
“We do not want this issue to be polemicised for too long, to the point that it overshadows other issues.
“We believe that this issue may have been raised to divert attention from cases that should instead involve the Prime Minister’s Office, particularly issues of corruption and others,” Azamuddin said.
He also explained that the memorandum was addressed to DAP instead of the Education Ministry because the party is the main driver behind the renewed push for UEC recognition.
He cautioned that this memorandum is an “early warning” and that they will take further action if UEC’s recognition continues to be pushed.
“If this warning is ignored and the issue continues, there will be larger waves coming.
“As I mentioned earlier, if they are dissatisfied or have concerns, we welcome dialogue,” he added.
The memorandum was received by DAP political education bureau executive secretary Teih Jian Peng, who told reporters that the party would review and deliberate on the contents of the notice submitted by Gamis.
The memorandum handover and press conference were conducted under heavy police presence, with officers deployed around the venue as Gamis leaders addressed the media and fielded questions on their stance.
UEC push
After suffering a total wipeout in the Sabah polls, DAP revealed it is pushing to get the certificate finally recognised by the government, as part of its reform agenda.
DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke has framed the UEC recognition as being part of a policy that would also strengthen the Malay language.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he was also not opposed to UEC recognition as long as the priority is to master Bahasa Malaysia.
“So, I want to remind that, if any race or party wants to put forward (proposals), there is no problem. But as citizens who follow the principles of the constitution, it should start with emphasising the primacy of mastering the Malay language,” he added.
The move has come under significant criticism, particularly from Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan and youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh, who said that the recognition can only be granted when Bahasa Malaysia becomes the main medium of instruction.
UEC recognition has been a pivotal part of Pakatan Harapan’s pledge to the public, as it was part of their 2018 and 2022 general election campaign promises. - Mkini
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