UEC recognition basic rights of Chinese community: Wee

PETALING JAYA: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong (pix) said it is the basic right as citizens of Malaysia for Chinese Malaysians to strive for government recognition for UEC (Unified Certificate Examination).
He said, "we have to convey to the Malays the Chinese's reasonable request by laying bare the reality and by means of reasoning".
He said he will not stop fighting for UEC's recognition despite the recent threat by Perkasa to "declare war" on the Federal government should it grant recognition to the standardised examination for students of Chinese independent high schools.
He said he would carry on without fear of criticism as what he is doing is based on conscience, Sin Chew Daily reported today.
He said Chinese, regardless of their political leanings, should forge a common front in protecting the rights of the community instead of trying to undermine each other.
"I am not doing this to garner votes, this is my responsibility. As a Cabinet minister, I have never avoided any issue concerning Chinese education.
"I am open to discussion on Chinese education issues but the crux of the matter should be on seeking a practical solution," Wee, who is MCA deputy chief, said this at the swearing-in ceremony of the new office-bearers of the Johor Dong Lian Hui ( Chinese School Committees Council).