KUCHING, Nov 11 — Sarawak does take race into account when it comes to education, as the state prioritises developing talent, said caretaker Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the state government’s recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) reflected its approach to developing talent across all communities to meet the demands of an increasingly technology-driven economy.

“We don’t play race here because we want everybody to participate in the new era. So, we recognise UEC, we don’t play racial (issues) here. We need people who have the knowledge, including the Chinese children who studied in UEC.

“Nothing wrong with UEC because UEC is also recognised by foreign universities,” he said at the Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak installation ceremony for 2025–2028 office bearers here last night.