KUALA LUMPUR – Vaccinations as a preventative measure are important and demanded by all religions to prevent the spread of diseases or epidemics, such as Covid-19, because of its effect on the human population, said religious leaders.
The leaders are of the opinion that taking the vaccine is demanded and categorised as a good practice for the health of an individual, the surrounding people, community and country as a whole.
Federal Territory Mufti Luqman Abdullah said Covid-19 is a pandemic that could risk the lives of other Muslims and therefore, precautionary measures should be taken to prevent it from spreading and endangering others.
“There is no law that says the (Covid-19) vaccination (when available) is mandatory. So we have to move within the legal framework. The vaccination is ‘harus’ (in Islam), but it should be encouraged on the Health Ministry’s advice that it is necessary to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“If the vaccination is not given priority, there is a possibility other diseases would appear and bring similar problems like Covid-19. So, when the vaccine is available, it will prevent that situation,” he said.
The government is still waiting for the consent of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Conference of Rulers for the fatwa on the use of the Covid-19 vaccine among Muslims in the country.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Seri Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri said the Special Muzakarah Committee Meeting’s decision on the matter had been presented to the Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal last week.
Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin reportedly said the Covid-19 vaccine will be given for free to Malaysians, while foreigners will be charged a fee to be determined by the Health Ministry.
He said the government has no plans to make the vaccination compulsory, adding that and the vaccine will be administered only to those who agree to take it voluntarily, especially those who are at risk and prone to diseases.
Luqman said there is a need to ascertain the vaccine is sourced from halal ingredients and certified by the Health and Science, Technology and Innovation Ministries to avoid prolong polemics.
“As such, it is important that Muslim scientists around mobilise their efforts to come up with a vaccine that is made from 100% halal ingredients or sources, and ensure that it has no side effects.”
He said the administration of vaccines from non-halal sources for Muslims is allowed, but depends on the situation and circumstance as long as it does not deviate from Islamic law.
Malaysian Hindu Sangam president Datuk R.S. Mohan Shan said Covid-19 vaccinations should be given to all, regardless of religion, race and country.
“It is important for health. A good person is one who does not give problems to others and is not selfish.
“Do not die in vain because of Covid-19. We need to prioritise our health, and vaccinations are the best preventive measure,” he added.
Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia president Sister Loh Pai Ling said the practice of doing good, as taught by Buddha, also includes taking the vaccination as it benefits the individual and society.
She said the Covid-19 vaccine could make the world a safer, healthier and more stable place to live in.
“We need to have pure and good intentions to make the country or world a safer place with a community that is healthy and free of Covid-19.
“However, those who refuse to take the vaccine must follow the stipulated standard operating procedures.”
Malaysian Gurdwara Council president Sardar Jagir Singh said the Sikh religion does not ban vaccinations as a measure against the Covid-19 threat.
“It is also important for the community to take the vaccine for the safety of the individual and community. Not taking it will be akin to threatening ourselves, and the safety of our family and the community we live in,” he added. – Bernama, December 17, 2020
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