KUALA LUMPUR – Those with information on a purported syndicate selling forged Covid-19 digital vaccination certificates are urged to come forward, amid fear of misuse by the unimmunised to enjoy benefits accorded to the inoculated.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said he understands demand for the certificates has been increasing among anti-vaxxers after the government announced certain perks for those who have received their two doses.
However, he said the ministry needs more information to give police sufficient evidence for action.
“There are those not interested in getting a jab but want the vaccination certificate for its benefits,” he told The Vibes today.
“We call on those with information to lodge an official complaint with the Health Ministry so we can file a police report. We need to be accurate in this matter. But I assure you that we will give this our full attention.”
Dr Adham, who co-chairs the Special Committee for Ensuring Access to Covid-19 Vaccine Supply, said those working at vaccination centres are also urged to report any suspicious acts by staff or other people at the venues.
He said this is because the centres provide direct access to the Malaysia Vaccine Administration System, which among others updates the vaccination status of individuals and stores their details.
The Tenggara MP also acknowledged the possibility of unscrupulous individuals duplicating existing vaccine certificates by taking screenshots and falsifying information, but said this should not pose a problem for the authorities.
He said that this is because the MySejahtera digital certificates have unique QR codes to verify their users.
Yesterday, The Vibes reported that certain parties may be selling fake Covid-19 vaccine certificates for as low as RM200 by adjusting the vaccination status on the MySejahtera mobile application.
The matter was first highlighted by a Twitter user who shared a message he received by an anonymous person, who was supposedly offered the service by a friend.
The tweet prompted calls for the authorities to probe into the matter, with Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil saying it was a serious allegation that warranted a closer look.
This comes on the back of an announcement by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on Sunday that fully vaccinated people will enjoy a number of perks beginning yesterday.
This includes permission for overseas travellers to undergo home quarantine and visiting for long-distance spouses. For states under Phase 2 of the National Recovery Plan, inoculated individuals can cross district borders, dine in, and take part in outdoor activities. – The Vibes, August 11, 2021
