KUCHING: Timberland Medical Centre (TMC) here has begun its operation as a Covid-19 vaccination centre (PPV) starting today (Tuesday), as one of the private hospitals in Sarawak selected for this purpose.
Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also SDMC advisor, paid a visit to TMC today.
Uggah, who is also deputy chief minister, said seven private hospitals and 42 private clinics in Sarawak had been approved as PPVs, as part of the government’s strategy to increase the volume of vaccinations administered to the people.
On TMC’s vaccination process, he said, “We are very happy with the system this morning. It is very orderly.”
Uggah added TMC would receive about 200 vaccine recipients per day, adding that the capacity could be increased in due time.
“In Kuching, we have almost half a million people above the age of 18 (and eligible to receive the vaccine). So it is a big challenge for us to make sure those who are qualified to receive the vaccination will get the jabs,” he said.
Meanwhile, TMC senior operations manager Lau Kim Lim said the vaccine recipients’ appointments would be arranged via the MySejahtera application.
“Vaccine recipients are to come half an hour before their appointments. I urge everyone to follow this so that we can have crowd control. Do not come too early and do not be late; follow the appointments set by MySejahtera,” he said.
Lau added those visiting TMC for their vaccination must also comply with the standard operating procedures (SOPs), including registering their attendance through MySejahtera and scanning the vaccination centre QR code.
He said senior citizens could be accompanied by a family member, noting that some were registered under the MySejahtera accounts of their children or family members.
“In terms of logistics, it is very simple. When they come to TMC, they go straight to the registration counter and they will be directed to the waiting room. Then, they will be brought in to sign the consent form.
“After that, they will be called to receive their vaccine. Next, they will be sent to the observation room to be monitored for 15 minutes before being given permission to return (home),” said Lau.
He said a vaccine recipient having his/her first dose would be informed of his/her next appointment for the second dose.
“I call upon all people of Sarawak to register for the vaccine via MySejahtera. Together, we take care of ourselves and our community,” he added.
