LANGKAWI, December 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said any proposals related to language use or the recognition of qualifications such as the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) must first respect and uphold the position of Bahasa Melayu as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.
Stressing that mastery of the national language is fundamental to nation-building. Speaking after Friday prayers in Kuah, Anwar said while he has no objection to strengthening the use of other languages.
Including English, Bahasa Melayu must be elevated as the primary language of knowledge, technology and artificial intelligence, and be mastered by all Malaysians across all education streams, including international schools.
He added that only after the principles surrounding the national language are firmly implemented should discussions on enhancing other languages or recognising the UEC be considered, warning that proposals focusing narrowly on one language or community risk creating social sensitivities.
Anwar reiterated that the dignity and mastery of Bahasa Melayu must be strengthened nationwide, in line with constitutional principles, as the foundation for fostering unity while accommodating Malaysia’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
