KUCHING: Sarawak is looking forward to vaccinating teenagers this week with final discussions ongoing for implementation of the process, says Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.

       He said the state was assessing the situation and preparing the infrastructure for the vaccinations to be done smoothly and effectively.

       "The state disaster management committee is discussing with the Education Department whether we should do it in vaccination centres or go to schools.

       "What is important is for us to give vaccines to our students and young people aged 12 to 17 years," Abang Johari told reporters after launching the Land and Survey Department's innovation and integrity day here on Monday (Sept 6).

       He also thanked the Federal Government for approving the vaccination of teenagers.

       Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said on Saturday (Sept 4) that Malaysia would begin vaccinating teenagers below 18 this week, starting with Sarawak.

       He said Sarawak would be the first as the state had reached the benchmark of vaccinating 80% of its adult population.

       On Sunday (Sept 5), Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said the vaccination of teens was expected to start on Wednesday (Sept 8).

       He said the relevant details would be announced once preparations had been made.