More than 20 MyCEB staff have been assisting with non-medical duties at mega Covid-19 vaccine centres since 8 July 2021. Photo Credit: Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau
Malaysia's business events industry leaders have sent volunteers to vaccine centres in an effort to accelerate the country's National Vaccination Programme.
The Business Events (BE) Stewards Programme, launched by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and Malaysia Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (MACEOS), has already seen more than 200 BE practitioners (including 20 MyCEB staff) assisting with non-medical duties at mega Covid-19 vaccine centres.
These include the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) and the Setia City Convention Centre, which have been doubling as vaccine dispensing centres (PPVs) as part of a national drive first started at Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre.
To ramp up vaccination rates, MyCEB is now teaming up with industry players to identify and nominate volunteers from state organisations for the BE Stewards Programme.
"Having the BE Stewards Programme is our way of working in partnership with the society and to be in service to the people in any way possible, and to encourage more people to also join hands to help achieve the nation’s vaccination target,” said MyCEB CEO, Dato’ Sri Abdul Khani Daud.
“We are committed to be part of the solution on keeping the health and wellbeing of Malaysians a priority. I’m proud that my team are doing their part and dedicating their time to help get Malaysia vaccinated."
Malaysia Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin recently announced the easing of restrictions for those fully vaccinated, which took effect from Tuesday, 10 August 2021, to transition the country from a pandemic state to accepting Covid-19 as endemic.
Fully vaccinated individuals can now enjoy more freedom and ease of movement in Malaysia, including dining at restaurants, travelling across states, and quarantine at home upon their return from abroad.
However, these perks currently apply for states and territories under Phase 2 or above of the National Recovery Plan, leaving out a significant part of the country that is still under Phase 1 — namely Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Johor and Melaka.
Additional reporting from S.S. Yoga.