SHAH ALAM: States and private companies that are interested to purchase Sinovac vaccines can start placing their orders now through Pharmaniaga, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri said.
He said 14 million doses of Sinovac are now available for orders after receiving approval from the Covid-19 Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee Special Committee (JKJAV) following a high demand for vaccines from the public.
Ismail said with the special bookings by state governments, private firms as well as government-linked companies (GLC) and government-linked investment companies (GLIC), the country's herd immunity is expected to be achieved sooner.
"The orders are opened now, but approvals for state governments and private firms to procure the supplies (of vaccines) will be determined by JKJAV," Ismail told a press conference here today.
Earlier, Ismail and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba witnessed the handover of Pharmaniaga's final batch of Sinovac vaccine to the Health Ministry for the Covid-19 National Immunisation Programme (NIP), four months ahead of schedule.
On the relaxation of restrictions during the current lockdown for those who have completed their vaccination doses, Ismail said the government was looking at several factors before the National Security Council (NSC) can make the final decision.
He said methods used by the neighbouring countries were being considered, based on scientific data as well as views from local health experts.
"We take note of all matters and concerns aired by experts as published in newspapers today. Some are worried and asked for the ban on inter-district travel to continue but most probably, certain relaxations can be done.
"For example, for long-distance married couples who have completed both doses, they will be allowed to meet each other.
"The NSC technical committee is doing research on this now. We don't have a timeline on when this will be finalised because every matter needs to be considered carefully," he said.