[UPDATED] 200,000 CanSino doses destined for Sabah arrive at KLIA

SEPANG – Malaysia today received the first batch of the Chinese-made single-dose CanSino vaccine in a boost to the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme, especially in rural areas.

A total of 200,000 doses developed by CanSino Biologics Inc in China arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport here about 8.45am via Malaysia Airlines flight MH361, reported Bernama.

The batch is destined for Sabah, as assured by former immunisation programme coordinating minister Khairy Jamaluddin last month.

“We will reserve the first shipment for Sabah, and similarly, we will notify and give the state the option of (choosing the) Johnson & Johnson (single-dose vaccine).”

The Sabah National Security Council, too, announced the arrival of the CanSino doses, saying they will ease the inoculation of residents living in far-flung areas.

The Covid-19 Immunisation Task Force in a statement said the “finished product” doses are part of the 3.5 million ordered from CanSino for delivery in stages.

“This supply will further intensify the vaccination drive, especially in low-access areas, and help Malaysia achieve herd immunity as targeted in the National Recovery Plan.”

Present to receive the delivery were Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry Secretary-General  Datuk Siti Hamisah Tapsir and Health Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Mohd Shafiq Abdullah.

Solution Biologics Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Solution Group Bhd, on July 30 signed finished and bulk product agreements with CanSino Biologics for the vaccine.

The CanSino jab was granted conditional approval for emergency use in Malaysia by the Drug Control Authority on June 15.

Given that it is a single-dose jab, Khairy previously said, health workers will not have to enter rural areas for a second time to complete recipients’ vaccination. – The Vibes, August 20, 2021