KUCHING – Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Rt Rev Simon Peter Poh has called on his flock to be responsible citizens by registering for the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme and get vaccinated in good time.
“Each person is to make the decision freely according to one’s conscience. The humanitarian principle is to make your decision with an outward viewpoint by considering the good of others and not thinking of self-preservation which is inward-looking,” he told The Vibes.
“By making the decision to be vaccinated, one is ultimately making a choice to protect self and others around, such as family, colleagues, friends and the larger society,” after taking his own Covid-19 jab last Friday at the Stadium Perpaduan, Petra Jaya.
Poh said according to the guidelines issued by the Malaysian Bishops’ Conference on February 4, the Catholic position is that vaccination is a moral good and the moral principle with regards to vaccinations is that it depends not only on the duty to protect one’s own health, but also on the duty to pursue the common good.
“Thus, when 70% of the population has been immunised, we will achieve herd immunity and help overcome Covid-19 in our community. Everyone can make a difference. Each vaccination contributes to the common good as expressed in the placard ‘Lindung Diri, Lindung Semua’,” he said.
The prelate cautioned against being complacent as the vaccinations are to be rolled out in stages, especially with Sarawak recording three-digit infections now.
By making the decision to be vaccinated, one is ultimately making a choice to protect self and others around, such as family, colleagues, friends, and the larger society.
Poh said irrespective of having been vaccinated or not, each person can still help to contain Covid-19 infections by fully complying with SOPs, keeping the 1m physical distance, wearing masks, minimising points of contact, reducing social circles and unnecessary trips to other places.
Among the clergy registered to receive their vaccinations on Friday were Poh and Archbishop Emeritus Peter Chung and Anglican Bishop Danald Jute. Archbishop Emeritus John Ha was vaccinated on Sunday.
“I was able to work comfortably over the weekend, save for a little soreness on the needle spot which did not impede me. On the whole, drinking plenty of fluids and being attentive to my body’s needs are good ways to monitor and help ensure a healthier lifestyle during these pandemic days,” said the prelate. – The Vibes, April 27, 2021
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