THE Malaysian government has indicated that it is seriously considering allowing those who have received the complete dose of a Covid-19 vaccine the right of passage.

That they would be allowed to travel interstate, crossing borders within the country.

There is also news of countries imposing similar travel rights to those who have been vaccinated to leave or enter their country.

The question we should address is: Are provisions of the right of travel morally sound when vaccinations cannot be imposed upon citizens, especially in a climate where the currently available vaccines to checkmate the spreading Covid-19 virus are only approved by the WHO for “emergency use only”.

Further, as there are countries that have already started approving the use of oral drugs like Ivermectin, citizens have a right of choice as to whether they want to take the existing vaccines or seek oral medications.

We need to take cognisance of the fact, too, that these existing vaccines are also not readily available in all countries for their citizens to make an informed, preferential choice.

Likewise, the existing vaccines are not equally accepted by all vaccine producing countries. There is great impasse between vaccines patented in the West and those coming from China and Russia.

What cannot be dismissed is the fact that the existing vaccines are also not able to claim 100% efficacy and there are reports worldwide of post-vaccine infection cases.

Besides, as the Covid-19 virus attacks subject to its host’s state of immune systems, there are individuals who are blessed with a strong immune system and are able to withstand the risks of being infected by observing the ‘new normal’ standard operating procedure in place.

I hope the Malaysian authorities and governments elsewhere, will give credence to the protection of humanity’s fundamental liberty, i.e. the freedom of movement.

The introduction of vaccine passports for right of travel whether within a country or across international borders is a moral disorder that must be avoided.

If such passports must be considered for the checkmating of a potential spread of the virus, then citizens who chose to take Ivermectin or any other medication that WHO would be approving over time should also be granted that same and equal right of travel.

Perhaps thinkers and philosophers should converge to help instil the right moral philosophy to direct governments and to avert any government or regime from abusing their power and control in this pandemic climate. – July 24, 2021.

*J. D. Lovrenciear reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.