Budget for Khairy’s ministry, including for vaccine funds, passed

The allocation for the science, technology and innovation ministry was passed by voice vote after the committee-level debate today, taking Perikatan Nasional’s score to 14-0.

The RM9.35 billion budget for the ministry, under Khairy Jamaluddin, includes provisions for the supply of Covid-19 vaccines to the country.

Of the RM9.35 billion, RM5.1 billion is for administrative expenses while RM4.25 billion is for development.

In his winding-up speech, Khairy said Malaysia aims to vaccinate 70% of the population in order to provide herd immunity.

Malaysia has so far signed two agreements which will provide enough vaccines for 30% of the population.

The first agreement, under the Covax Facility, was signed on Nov 23. It will guarantee enough vaccines for 10% of the country.

The second agreement, an early purchase agreement with pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, was signed on Nov 24. This will provide enough vaccines for 20% of the country, that is 12.8 million doses.

“To fulfil the balance of 40% more, the government is in the process of negotiating with other pharmaceutical companies creating Covid-19 vaccines,” Khairy said.