Vaccination for all to Leave No One Behind.

The United Nations in Malaysia welcomes the statement by the Special Committee on COVID-19 Vaccine Supply (JKJAV) that all foreign citizens, including in principle those who are undocumented  will be ensured free access to the COVID-19 vaccines under the National Immunisation Programme.

This move by the Government, exemplifies the spirit of leaving no one behind that underpins the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Inclusion of these vulnerable groups in the Malaysian Government Vaccination Plan will go a long way in ensuring the well-being and health of everyone in the country. An effective Covid-19 response can only be achieved when healthcare and immunization services are made freely accessible to all, including those who are most vulnerable during this crisis e.g. migrant workers, refugees, asylum seekers, the stateless and undocumented persons.

None of us are safe until all of us are safe. Malaysia sets a good example in this regard that we hope other countries in the region and elsewhere will follow.

The United Nations and its agencies stand ready to provide continued support to the Government of Malaysia in its Covid-19 response and in identifying opportunities within this devastating health and socio-economic crisis to build back better, guided by the transformative framework of the SDGs towards a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.