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THREE prominent Malaysian alumni associations representing leading Chinese universities have refuted claims by MARA Chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki that the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) is not a recognised qualification for entry into these institutions.
In a joint statement, the Peking University Alumni Association Malaysia, Tsinghua University Graduates Association Malaysia, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University Alumni Malaysia said the chairman’s remarks did not accurately reflect longstanding admission practices or the criteria employed by Chinese universities.
“UEC has long been recognised by many top universities in China and remains an important qualification for Malaysian students seeking higher education opportunities. For many years, a significant number of Malaysian students have been admitted to leading Chinese universities based on their UEC results,” the statement read.
The associations highlighted that Peking University, for example, has recognised the UEC since 2009, and in that year, all Malaysian undergraduates admitted to the university applied using their UEC results.
“In subsequent years, the number of Malaysian students enrolling at Peking University continued to grow, with the majority admitted based on their UEC performance,” the statement added.
The associations emphasised that the UEC is not the sole qualification accepted by Chinese universities, noting that institutions also consider other credentials such as the Malaysian STPM, A-Levels, and equivalent examinations.
“Students from diverse educational backgrounds can apply using the qualifications that best reflect their academic preparation and individual circumstances,” they explained.
“These associations affirm that UEC has long been recognised as one of the valid qualifications for entry into Chinese universities and has consistently been a key option for Malaysian students pursuing higher education in China.
“We welcome all eligible applicants, whether applying with UEC or other recognised examination results, to study in China, broaden their perspectives, develop academically and personally, and contribute to society after graduation,” the statement continued.
The alumni groups also urged that public discourse on education and university admissions be based on accurate and complete information to prevent confusion that could negatively impact students’ higher education choices. - December 17, 2025