KOTA KINABALU: The Unified Examination, an examination sat by Chinese independent school students after completing secondary school, is now a recognized qualification in Sabah.

The first batch of 45 students with Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) was awarded state scholarships following the recognition.

Au Kam Wah, the Sabah chairman of United Chinese School Committees Association (Dong Zong) confirmed receiving an official letter signed by state secretary Datuk Seri Panglima Safar Untong in a press conference on Oct 18.

The letter dated Oct 3 informed heads of state departments and secretaries that the Sabah state government recognized UEC.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor announced recognition of UEC by the state government on Sep 22 and agreed to set up scholarships for UEC holders.

“We have compiled a list of 45 students applying for state scholarships on Sep 30 and handover the list to Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe,’’ said Au.

Dong Zong, in a statement on Oct 19, lauded Sabah state government’s move to recognize UEC.

It urges other states to follow Sabah in ensuring Chinese independent school students enjoy equality in education and job opportunities.

The Sabah state government recognizes UEC qualification and students who sit for Unified Examination and score a credit in Malay language in SPM are eligible to apply for Sabah state scholarships, study in education institutions under Sabah state government and qualify to join the civil service in Sabah.

Both Sabah and Sarawak state governments have recognized UEC qualifications and Dong Zong urges the Unity Government to do the same so that Chinese independent school students are eligible to study in public universities and join the civil service.