By CV Chong, Concerned Chinese Independent School Alumni, Sabah
KOTA KINABALU: As an ex-student of a Chinese independent high school, I strongly condemn the irresponsible politicisation of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) issue by politicians desperate for votes. The UEC is not a political toy—it is the pride and lifeblood of the Chinese education system in Malaysia, symbolising decades of struggle, sacrifice, and cultural preservation.
The recent Daily Express report on Parti Warisan’s so-called “support” for UEC recognition once again exposes how political opportunism is being disguised as sincerity. While Warisan’s public stance may appear supportive, the timing and motive behind these statements are deeply questionable. The Chinese community can see through such manipulation and rejects any attempt to exploit the UEC issue for political mileage.
What makes this even more shameful is that Chin Tek Ming himself is a former student of a Chinese independent high school. As someone who personally benefited from the system, his choice to turn Chinese education into a political bargaining chip is both disgraceful and hypocritical. Such a low-class and short-sighted political move not only insults the values he once learnt but also jeopardises the future of Chinese education in Sabah.
The UEC is more than just an exam certificate—it is a bridge for countless students to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams locally and abroad. By treating it as a political tool, leaders like Chin Tek Ming and others are betraying the trust of the community and disrespecting generations who built this education system with blood, sweat, and unwavering commitment.
We call upon Warisan and all political parties to stop using Chinese education as a campaign gimmick. What the people demand is not empty promises but genuine, transparent, and practical implementation that benefits students and strengthens the credibility of the UEC.
The Chinese community stands united in defending our education system. We demand respect, fairness, and sincerity—not manipulation and deceit.
In conclusion, as a stakeholder and proud product of Chinese independent education, I urge Chin Tek Ming and all political leaders to stop exploiting the UEC issue for personal or party gain. Let us protect the dignity and future of Chinese education in Malaysia through principled leadership, not opportunistic politics.
This message reflects the firm stance of Chinese Independent High School alumni and supporters across Sabah who refuse to let political greed destroy the future of our community’s education.
