GEORGE TOWN – Former Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng has suggested that the state government write to Pharmaniaga Bhd to directly purchase the Sinovac Covid-19 vaccine.
This should be done while stocks are available, with some supply expected to be up for sale by end-June, he said in a statement.
He said state governments still want to purchase vaccines due to the slow and difficult process to secure inoculation appointments.
“Although Pharmaniaga is confident it can supply around 8.6 million doses of the vaccine by the end of June, the record cases and deaths yesterday have struck fear in the hearts of Malaysians.
“They are desperately searching for vaccines to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
The Bagan MP said he had a zoom meeting with Pharmaniaga group managing director Datuk Zulkarnain Md Eusope and his team this afternoon on the availability of the Sinovac jab.
“Zulkarnain informed that apart from the private sector, there are many states that have requested to purchase the vaccine, including Sarawak, Selangor, Sabah, Perak, Pahang and Johor.
“However, the quantity for sale will be more in July and August, when supply picks up.
“Details on the purchase price and delivery can be discussed directly between Pharmaniaga and the state government.
“Zulkarnain mentioned there may be some vaccines available by the end of June for sale.
“Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow wrote to the federal government last week, and is awaiting approval to purchase the vaccines either locally or from overseas producers.”
Lim said the Zoom meeting was also participated by Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim, Selangor exco Ng Sze Han, Damansara MP Tony Pua, Bangi MP Ong Kian Ming and Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii. – The Vibes, May 27, 2021
