KUCHING: The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) recently revealed that only one million Sarawakians had registered for the Covid-19 vaccination programme.
Sarawak has a population of 2.619 million and one of the reasons why many have not yet registered themselves is fear of possible side effects of the vaccine.
In a random survey, most of the members of the public interviewed by New Sarawak Tribune, however, look forward to receiving their vaccine. They believe it will help curb the spread of the virus and minimise the risk of infection in the state.
Marzieh Gail, legal administrator
‘I have not yet registered for the Covid-19 vaccine because of my past asthma history. However, I’m not scared to receive the jab. I need time to consult a doctor.’
Azizul Hakim Abdul Latiff, car salesman
‘I have already registered for the vaccination programme because it is for protection and contributes to the country’s efforts in fighting the virus. I do not feel scared because some of my family members are frontliners and they say everything is fine.’
Ningkan Hamilton, student
‘Yes, I have registered for the programme. It is our responsibility to protect ourselves and other people from Covid-19. I know some people have fears about the vaccine but I believe in science and the vaccine has been effective through researches’
Bibiana Kulleh, legal officer
‘I have already registered for the programme. It is the best solution to curb the spread of the virus. I am not really scared but as a breastfeeding mother, I am concerned about its effect on my baby. Everybody reacts differently to the vaccine. Let’s just pray for the best.’
Carolyn Philip, private worker
‘Yes, I registered a few weeks ago. I think it is something that I’m supposed to do as a citizen of this country. Everything has its risk. So, I want to challenge myself even if there are possible side effects after the vaccination.’
Teo Wan Shiang, private worker
‘Yes, I have registered for the programme. It is my responsibility as a citizen and I need to play my role to combat Covid-19. I am scared but I am ready. The frontliners have already received their jabs and nothing happened to them. This is a good thing to know.’
