PETALING JAYA: Malaysia will join the Covax Vaccine Plan for Covid-19 vaccines, says the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry.

“The Malaysian government will join the Covid-19 vaccine global access (Covax) to obtain part of the required vaccine needed.

“The government is discussing terms for Malaysia’s entry with the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunisation (Gavi), which is operating Covax,” the ministry said in a statement on Saturday (Sept 19).

In addition to Covax, the ministry said it is also working with other parties to obtain Covid-19 vaccines.

“We are also preparing the agreement to enter the Coalition for Epidemic and Preparedness Innovations (Cepi), as well as a government-to-government agreement with the Chinese government to receive access to the vaccine being developed by pharmaceutical companies in the country.

“The Malaysian government, through the Health Ministry, has also signed several non-disclosure agreements with international pharmaceutical companies that are at phase three testings of their vaccine to discuss vaccine supply,” it said.

The statement added that by participating, partnerships with other countries and discussions with pharmaceutical companies would ensure Malaysia will receive the required amount of vaccines.

It added that it would also ensure vaccines received are done so after proof of safe use and effectiveness, as well as purchasing them at an appropriate price.