KUALA LUMPUR – The government should not threaten and impose punitive measures against those who are hesitant about getting vaccinated or entirely opposed to it, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Instead, Anwar said the health minister should use relevant facts and evidence in order to change their minds.
“This is as opposed to using ‘sombong’ (arrogant) means to coerce them to get vaccinated.”
The opposition leader said the government should also focus on giving vaccines to those who want to be inoculated.
“Sort out those who have yet to receive their jabs. The small number (who refuse it) should be approached and be given information. It’s not easy,” he said.
“This is because the laws do not indicate that they (anti-vaxxers) have done anything wrong.”
Anwar, who is Port Dickson MP, said this during an official ceremony to mark the opening of Wisma SP Care building in Serendah here this evening.
He said that although he does not support the anti-vaccine movement, its proponents sometimes put forth strong arguments.
“Therefore, it is the government’s responsibility to present stronger points.
“If they (anti-vaxxers) use arguments based on scientific papers, we need to bring forth studies that are more credible to counter their arguments,” Anwar said.
“The approach should be to appeal, persuade, explain, and provide information and answers.”
On Saturday, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said the government is considering the possibility of weekly Covid-19 tests for those who refuse the jab.
He said although vaccination is not mandatory, the government is mulling “making life difficult” for those who opt against getting the shot without medical reasons for their decision.
Hulu Langat MP Datuk Hasanuddin Mohd Yunus disagreed with this method, telling Khairy to instead approach those hesitant about getting vaccinated or entirely opposed to it with fair policies in a professional manner.
The Amanah lawmaker said a minister should craft fair policies in approaching those refusing vaccination, and to do so in a civilised and professional way.
He added that Khairy’s approach will only ramp up tensions, and that Malaysia needs a government that can manage conflicts intelligently, not emotionally. – The Vibes, October 17, 2021
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