KOTA BARU – Anti-vaxxers trying to incite members of the public against getting the Covid-19 jab will be charged under the Sedition Act 1948.
Law minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said these individuals will also face action under the Emergency (Essential Powers) Ordinance 2021 and Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, Getaran reported.
“For anti-vaxxers, we do not need to have new laws; instead, we can take action using existing ones.
“We urge the public to not spread provocative messages related to the Covid-19 vaccine,” he said at a press conference after distributing aid to vaccine recipients here today.
He also urged the public to not create unrest or spread false information, especially during a pandemic.
“If anyone refuses to comply, the authorities will take appropriate action – not because the government is harsh, but as a last resort.”
In another development, Takiyuddin said the government has yet to make a decision on the proposal to fine individuals who fail to attend their Covid-19 vaccine appointments.
The government’s policy for now is that jabs are free and voluntary, he added.
“However, we have the Covid-19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee Special Committee and Covid-19 Immunisation Task Force, (both) which handle the vaccine issue. It is up to the committee to take action or not.”
It has also been reported that the Kelantan Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council will take action against any preacher or imam whose lectures contradict the government’s policy on the use of the Covid-19 vaccine.
Its deputy president Zulkifle Ab Rahman said the council views the matter seriously and will monitor the situation in the state with the cooperation of district heads. – The Vibes, May 30, 2021
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