By Nasuha Badrul Huzaini
SHAH ALAM, Nov 30 — The invention of Covid-19 vaccines requires strong financial support from the Federal government due to their high-cost and it is beyond the state government’s capability.
State executive councillor for public health Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud said the state government has also taken into account the cost needed to market the vaccines.
“Therefore, it is beyond what we can afford. However, I believe that the Malaysian government will continue to monitor the progress of Covid-19 vaccine inventions.
“I have read a report from the former Health Minister that Malaysia has expressed its interest to take part in the vaccine invention,” she said during the Question Time session at the Selangor State Legislative Assembly, here today.
Dr Siti Mariah was responding to a query from Hulu Klang state assemblyman Saari Sungib on the best prevention method to address the spread of Covid-19.
Meanwhile, she said the Covid-19 situation in Selangor throughout 2022 is under control with an average of 1,000 to 2,000 cases registered from the beginning of Epidemiological Week 35 to 46.
“Among the main factors which contributed to the current situation include the high vaccination rate of over 90 per cent including booster shots in the state as well as the capability of public health facilities to accommodate cases in categories three, four and five.
“Aside from that, the state government also continues to remind the public to practise the TRIIS (Test, Report, Inform, Isolate, Seek) procedures and keep spreading the importance of self-hygiene.
“We also will continue to promote booster shots to the public, especially those who are at risk including senior citizens, chronic illness patients and pregnant ladies,” she added.
