KUALA LUMPUR – The distribution of Covid-19 vaccines to the public will be done based on registration and appointment, so as to ensure good organisation and avoid potential wastage.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, in a series of tweets, said without the registration requirement, people may crowd vaccine distribution centres, creating long queues.
“Need to register to enter the appointments management system. Most countries give out vaccinations based on appointments.
“Asking people to just show up will create huge queues or wastage. Appointments management system will also assist with vaccine logistics – how many to send where.
“The registration process is part of making an appointment. Then, they will be given the stipulated date, time and place based on the info given, e.g. where they live, which may not be the same as their IC address.”
Khairy co-chairs the Special Committee on Covid-19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee with Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.
Dr Adham yesterday confirmed that recipients of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine under the inoculation drive’s first phase, from end-February to April, will comprise front-line personnel, including those from the Health Ministry, armed forces, police and Civil Defence Force.
He said the second phase, expected to begin in March, will involve people aged 60 and over, and other vulnerable groups.
Khairy, addressing concerns that rural folk without internet access or electronic devices will not be able to register as vaccine recipients through the MySejahtera app, said there are other ways to do so.
“If it involves village folk, the nearest health clinic will contact them and assist in their registration,” he said, adding that both locals and foreigners can register the same way.
He confirmed that registration for the public will only begin next month, and said individuals who have received their first dose will be issued an appointment card for their second jab.
“It will also be recorded in your MySejahtera. The date for your second dose will be noted down. For Pfizer, it will be 21 days after. Other vaccines may be different.
“You will also get a reminder.”
Asked why the government has delayed the registration process, he said it is because most countries are conducting distribution in stages.
“Most countries go by phases. Even in the UK, they are still only accepting appointments from priority groups first.”
To queries on why Putrajaya has yet to pre-register individuals, he said the government will provide ample time for the public, especially senior citizens, to sign up.
“Phase Two of the immunisation programme, which is for the elderly, will commence in April and go on until August. Registration will start in March.
“We will ensure you have enough time to plan to bring your parents to the nearest vaccination centre.” – The Vibes, February 14, 2021
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