Give correct info on vaccines to instil confidence

MIRI: The dissemination of vaccine-related information must be clear and precise to instil confidence among Sarawakians on the vaccination exercise which will start by end of this month.

Federation of Miri Division Chinese Associations president Datuk David Goh said the vaccines, which would arrive in Malaysia next week, would bring hope to the people to gradually return to their daily routine.

“However, rumours and incorrect information about vaccines and their side effects spark fear. I know there are many who refuse to be vaccinated due to worries that there might be side effects.

“We must look at countries that have already started vaccinating their people, and statistics shows that the rumours are just to put off people from getting the vaccination. People fear what they don’t understand. Hence, it is always good to get and disseminate correct information on the vaccines,” said Goh when met yesterday.

He added that extremists and politicians must not politicise the vaccine issue, instead focusing on the people’s livelihood.

“For now there is no room for bigotry, racism and other issues. The human race must unite against the common enemy which is the Covid-19 virus. It is only right that we do this together,” he said.

Meanwhile. the federation put up massive spring couplets yesterday to mark the eighth day of Chinese New Year.

The couplets is the federation’s way to celebrate this year’s Spring festival, while promoting the art of Chinese calligraphy.

“We had to cancel all CNY_ related celebrations due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, we made an effort to lighten up the CNY spirit, and continue our fight for a better future.”

Goh also greeted other members of the federation via Google Meet, as part of Covid-19 standard operating procedure (SOP).

Founder of Miri Chinese Calligraphy and Cultural Society Ting Nai Ho and committee members were also present at the event.