KUALA LUMPUR – The Public-Private Partnership Industrial Covid-19 Immunisation Programme (Pikas) should prioritise critical sectors facing a high risk of infection, especially companies with a large workforce living in centralised accommodation.
With staff living and working in close quarters, it is easier for the virus to spread, said Malaysian Employers’ Federation (MEF) president Datuk Syed Hussain Syed Husman.
“While we support the roll-out of Pikas for certain manufacturers, priority must be given to those who need the vaccine now to avoid infection, and we recommend that Pikas be expanded to all 17 essential sectors.”
Employers in other economic sectors are eager to participate in the programme, which will roll out on-site vaccinations at designated factories and industrial locations beginning June 16.
“Companies allowed to operate during the MCO (movement control order) want to ensure that all their employees are protected from Covid-19, and many are keen to participate in Pikas,” said Syed Hussain.
“This will help ensure no more new workplace clusters in the future. The speedy implementation of Pikas should be made a priority to protect workers against the risk of infection.”
Presently, employees of companies in critical manufacturing sub-sectors, such as electrical and electronics, food processing, iron and steel, medical devices, personal protective equipment, oil and gas, and rubber products, including medical glove manufacturing sub-sectors, will be prioritised for vaccination under Pikas.
It is understood that the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) has received applications from some 500 companies with a total of 106,591 workers to voluntarily participate in the initiative.
Syed Hussain said MEF supports the collaboration between the government and industry to ensure Pikas’ smooth roll-out and success.
“Based on the fee structure provided by Miti, the cost for vaccination to be borne by the employer is about RM45 per employee. This is reasonable and acceptable, as the government will bear the cost of the Covid-19 vaccine.
“Employers must not be allowed to pass on the costs to their employees. However, the government should consider giving a tax rebate or tax exemption on the costs incurred by the companies participating in the voluntary programme.
“MEF has also applied to arrange for our members to take part in Pikas, and is awaiting approval from JKJAV (Covid-19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee Special Committee).” – The Vibes, June 15, 2021
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