PENA Backs PM Anwar’s Stance Against UEC Recognition

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 13 (Bernama) -- The National Writers Association of Malaysia (PENA) has expressed support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s firm stance in refusing to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) despite continued pressure from vested political parties.

PENA president Dr Mohamad Saleeh Rahamad said the Malay language must not be compromised or sidelined in any negotiations, especially demands that amount to political coercion.

“The Prime Minister’s position is in line with PENA’s aspiration to uphold and strengthen the Malay language within the education system and all areas of administration, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution,” he said in a statement today.

He also urged Malay political leaders and stakeholders in the national education system to unite in rejecting the UEC to ensure national principles are not sacrificed. 

“Bahasa Melayu is one of the pillars of the Constitution, and its value is not determined by temporary political power but by the entire rakyat,” he said.

Mohamad Saleeh said political parties would naturally seek support from their voters, but the government must not yield to demands that undermine a system founded on constitutional principles.

“The national education system must not be manipulated by private interests on the assumption that recognition by universities worldwide is sufficient justification,” he said.

He stressed that the government led by Anwar, as the executive authority, must have the courage to defend an education system that has already taken all considerations into account.

“Any demand in the name of education must prioritise the position of the Malay language as the national language and a core value of the National Education Policy,” he said.

He said proficiency in other languages is an added value in developing human capital, but it must not come at the expense of the national language.

At the same time, Mohamad Saleeh said PENA is ready to cooperate with the Education Ministry and other institutions to design inclusive programmes to further elevate the national language and ensure that every Malaysian attains proficiency in Malay.

Yesterday, Anwar said that any demands touching on religious, racial and ethnic sensitivities must take into account the position of the national language in the Constitution, adding that the principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution regarding the status of the Malay language will continue to be upheld and defended.

-- BERNAMA