LETTER | Preparing for the vaccine: How can Malaysia get ready?

LETTER | The world is collectively holding its breath for the Covid-19 vaccine as it has been estimated that between 85 to 90 percent of the population will need to be vaccinated for the world to break free from the coronavirus pandemic and for normal life to resume.

Progress on the development of a vaccine has been encouraging. According to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (Cepi), there are 73 vaccine candidates that are being explored, while five have already entered clinical trials.

While it is true that a vaccine cannot come soon enough, it is also vital that Malaysia spends this time preparing for the mass vaccination of the public when a vaccine becomes available. To do so, Malaysia has to ensure that the vaccine is available, accessible, and does not fall victim to misinformation.

Malaysia has to first ensure that it can secure a sufficient supply of the vaccine. There is a legitimate concern that Covid-19 vaccines may go to the highest bidder unless sufficient global diplomatic and advocacy efforts are made to ensure that the vaccines are equally distributed to all.

Malaysia needs to work with other low- and middle-income countries to ensure that firm rules are being set...