By Jerry Choong
SHAH ALAM, April 28 — The state government is looking to produce effective local vaccines that are safe to use by way of cooperation between Invest Selangor and local as well as international vaccination experts, said Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari.
He said they are especially looking forward to working with vaccine manufacturers recognised by the World Health Organisation.
"This move will increase the performance and abilities of Selangor's biotechnology industry to a higher and more competitive level with the international market," Amirudin said in an Instagram post.
He added there are 14 higher education institutions and several research institutions in the state that are capable of producing their own vaccines.
"This exploration also has the potential to open a new chapter for Selangor. Asides from guaranteeing health, there is the potential to generate new job and economic opportunities in Selangor as well as lining Malaysia up to be on par with other developed nations," Amirudin said.
In mid-March state executive councillor for investment, trade and industry Dato’ Teng Chang Khim also spoke of the matter, saying a working partnership with pharmaceutical companies can lead to the production of effective and safe vaccines locally.
