Pangkor Island is expected to achieve the target of 80 percent herd immunity by September this year through the COVID-19-Free Destination programme.
At least 8,026 out of the 11,500 population of Pangkor are scheduled to be administered jabs in realising the target.
According to the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato’ Seri Nancy Shukri, the programme is a joint effort by the ministry (MOTAC) with the Manjung Land and District Office and Manjung District Health Office.
“The island was chosen as a part of the COVID-19 Free Destination programme under Phase 2 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).
“The programme is aimed towards restoring the national community’s confidence in the safety of tourism destinations in the country.
“The outreach programme has been held since July 16 and will continue for eight consecutive weeks. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, a vaccination capacity of up to 540 doses are to be administered per day.
“Thus, first dose jabs are expected for completion by August 8 and will commence with second doses on August 13.”
She told reporters during a media session after a work visit to the island’s Maternal and Child Health Clinic (KKIA) today (July 25).
Also present was the Executive Councillor for Housing, Local Government and Tourism Dato’ Nolee Ashilin Mohamed Radzi, among others.
Nancy added, the ministry is working hand-in-hand with the Pangkor Island branch of the Malaysia Taxi Association (PERTEKMA) to facilitate residents’ movements in obtaining their doses.
“The state-level MOTAC assigned four staff members to volunteer in the programme for two weeks.
“In weeks to come, some 25 volunteers from MOTAC-related agencies will be arranged to assist in the ongoing outreach programme.
“As such, I urge the residents of Pangkor Island to keep supporting the vaccination programme and to those who’ve yet to register, do so as soon as possible.
“Hopefully, this contributes to the betterment of the tourism sector and subsequent restoration of the local economy in the island as a famous tourism destination,” she expressed.
Chris Teh
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