Vaccine: Fine, compound for people who cut the queue - Khairy

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is considering fines and compounding action against any individual found to be cutting back on getting vaccinated.

Coordinating Minister for the National COVID-19 Immunization Program, Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar said, additional power may be given to the Minister of Health, Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba to impose the compound.

According to Khairy, his party has also created a 'Guidelines in Setting the Front Line Task List' to ensure that the issue does not recur again.

"With these clear guidelines, it allows those in the Vaccine Distribution Center (PPV) to make sure those who come are in the front line. If there is any pressure, do not let anyone cut their turn.

"We are very firm about this matter. We also accpet complaints by email. If there is information, they can make a complaint, there is no need to include a name, it doesn't matter.

"If it happens (cutting queue), we may be able to add power to the Minister of Health to fine or compound whoever cuts the queue," he said.

He said this at a press conference after the COVID-19 Vaccine Supply Access Special Assurance Committee (JKJAV) Meeting here on Monday which was also attended by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba

Khairy explained that although many were confused, he informed that the elected representative was the recipient of the COVID-19 vaccine in Phase One, as previously announced.

Meanwhile, when asked about the fines and compounds, Adham said, the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) is always looking at risk assessment, especially in the prevention and control of epidemics.

"In Act 342, we have a section to bring to justice if any individual obstructs or hinders the effort against COVID-19," he said.

The issue of cutting the hotline was discussed on social media when there were complaints claiming that there were VIPs cutting the front row in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.