Adenan (second right) accepts a specially framed calligraphy painting from Tiong (right), as Wong (third left) explains the meaning of the Chinese characters. Looking on at second left is Lau.
SIBU: The Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) can be accorded with a full recognition at national level, provided that there are slight adjustments to its current curriculum.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan said he had brought the matter to the attention of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
Currently, UEC is recognised by the state government.
“He (Najib) has said that this (national-level recognition of UEC) can be done but it must change the curriculum slightly, namely History and Bahasa Melayu.
“Now, the United Chinese School Committees Association of Malaysia (Dong Zong) headed by Temenggong Dato Vincent Lau can negotiate (with the Education Ministry) for UEC to be recognised at national-level,” Adenan said in officiating at SJKC Thai Kwang’s 85th anniversary celebration here last night.
Meanwhile, Local Government and Community Development Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh, when met after the function, said Adenan had mentioned about his hope that the Dong Zong, headed by Lau, could successfully negotiate with the Education Ministry on the UEC full recognition.
“It’s a matter of changing the requirements, he (Adenan) said. Actually, the requirements are very simple — firstly, change the syllabus to become Malaysian-oriented. Perhaps, there’s too much emphasis on China.
“Secondly, the credit requirement for Bahasa Melayu,” he said.
Later, Adenan announced RM500,000 for SJKC Thai Kwang.
The event was also attended by direct Barisan Nasional candidate for Pelawan Datuk Janet Lau, organising chairman Tiong Tung Uh, SJKC Thai Kwang headmistress Sio Siok Hie and Sibu Resident Hii Chang Kee.