Hasty decision on UEC can cause disunity, says Maszlee

EDUCATION Minister Dr Maszlee Malik says that granting recognition to UEC hastily without mutual understanding among the different races in the country might cause disunity and result in disturbances among the people.
He said he did not want to regret or make a U-turn after making an important decision, and urged the stakeholders to be patient and give him more time on the issue.
"The previous (Barisan Nasional) government wanted only short-term result. In the end (it) would flip-flop.
"Now we need to be sure we understand each other. I know this will take a long time but (the result) will be long term. We need to create a better future for the country.
"I know many people say I am taking too long, too slow in making a decision …
"You can say whatever you like but I want to make sure the society is united and does not disintegrate. I want all of us to live together with utmost respect for and understanding of one another," he said in an interview with China Press published today.
When told about the criticism levelled at his deputy, Teo Nie Ching, for Pakatan Harapan's failure to fulfil a promise made before the 14th general election that it would quickly grant recognition to UEC should the coalition come to power, Maszlee asked: "Do you want us to make, in the shortest time, a major decision that could cause social disturbance?"
"I can satisfy the Chinese community, but when the other communities do not see the sentiments about and value of UEC, would it be a wise decision?
"I cherish unity. Please be patient and give me more time," he said of the Chinese educationists' demand for the government to recognise UEC sooner rather than later.