Fake vaccination certs a serious issue, perpetrators should be given harsher punishments

ON JAN 10, 2022, the police arrested six individuals believed to be involved in a fake Covid-19 vaccination certificate syndicate run by a private doctor in Marang.

This suggests that the case is not an isolated issue, but something more widespread, which warrants more attention.

In addition, such scandals tarnish the image and credibility of the healthcare institution and profession.

Reports have also revealed that more than 100 fake vaccination appointment cards were seized. This begs the question, how many of the circulating vaccination certificates have been products of forgery?

Producing fake vaccination certificates is not only an irresponsible action, but it is also unfair to those who have valid health reasons to not get vaccinated. These groups of individuals cannot get vaccinated themselves, and thus have to rely on herd immunity from others being vaccinated.

Therefore, irresponsible individuals who fake their vaccination certificates could be especially dangerous to them.

At the same time, such selfish behaviour also goes against the sacrificial spirit of frontliners who have worked tirelessly since the pandemic began to protect and save lives.

Moreover, fake vaccination certificates will impede the government’s strategy to break the infection chain by vaccinating the public.

If the cases start rising again as a result of incomplete vaccinations, can Malaysia afford to have another lockdown?

To those who are offering such services, I say, reflect on your actions. Don’t jeopardise the whole country for the sake of short-term profits.

On the other hand, for those who have purchased or intend to purchase such services, I urge you to change your mind because the vaccine has proven our best chance against Covid-19, especially as new variants like Omicron have arrived.

Therefore, I urge the relevant authorities to be stricter towards anti-vax groups and syndicates producing fake vaccination certificates. The Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act could be amended for harsher punishments toward anyone who purchase or provide fake vaccination certificates. We hope that these steps will prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that Malaysians can move forward as one to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic.

CHEW SIR BOON

Terengganu MCA state liaison committee chairman