Why Malaysians are vaccine hesitant

Photo: dpa

VACCINATION has long been one of the most effective ways to prevent infectious diseases, save lives, and protect communities. In Malaysia, however, vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a growing concern, threatening the nation’s progress towards herd immunity and public health goals.

Regions like the Southern and East Coast areas of Peninsular Malaysia are particularly affected, with sociocultural influences and religious beliefs often deterring parents from vaccinating their children.