AS phase two of the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme kicks off nationwide today, Penang will see a total of 2,024 people comprising the elderly, chronically ill and people with disabilities receive their first jab.
They will be inoculated at five venues that had been turned into Covid-19 vaccination centres (PPV) across all five districts in the state.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the five venues include the Caring Society Complex in the northeast district (411 people to receive vaccines), Balik Pulau Sports Complex in the southwest district (231), Millenium Hall in Kepala Batas in north Seberang Perai (559), Jawi multipurpose hall in south Seberang Perai (571) and Seberang Perai Arena Convention Centre in central Seberang Perai (252).
“As we welcome the elderly, chronically ill and people with disabilities to receive their vaccines today, we would also hope to increase awareness among the public on the importance of getting themselves registered via the MySejahtera application to receive their jabs.
“According to statistics, as of April 17, a total 619,804 have registered in Penang, which is also equivalent to 44.8%.
“The number is still relatively low, and we hope as phase two commences today, we will be able to see an increase in terms of the registration for the programme in the near future,” Chow said during his visit to the Caring Society Complex today.
State Health Department director Datuk Dr Asmayani Khalib, who accompanied Chow during the visit, told reporters that Penang is one of the earlier states to kick off the second phase of the Covid-19 vaccination programme.
She had also urged fellow Penangites to cooperate by registering themselves through the MySejahtera application to receive the vaccination.
“We need everyone to show equal importance in this matter as we are aiming to at least reach 70 to 80 percent of registered vaccine receivers.
“As for today, it is really heart-warming to see many elderly folks come forward to receive their jabs.
“This shows they have confidence towards this programme and could potentially be the limelight for those who are reluctant to register and receive their jabs,” Dr Asmayani said during the press conference.
She also added that under phase one, as of April 17 in the state, a total of 41,603 people had received their first dose and 31,593 received their second dose.
Separately, Chow also urged those who have registered through the MySejahtera application, to constantly check the application to know their appointment date, time and venue to receive the vaccine.
“We found that some 30% of people who have registered, were not aware of the next step which is to confirm their attendance on the fixed date, time and venue,” he added.
When a reporter then asked about the issue of logistics concerning old folk homes, Chow said the state Health Department is in talks with related parties to solve the matter.
“During this second phase, our aim is to also provide the jabs to as many people as possible.
“So, for those in the old folk homes and even our economic frontliners from multinational companies who would require assistance such as transportation and so on, we are looking into it,” Chow added.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad