PETALING JAYA: The drive to vaccinate almost 2,000 lawyers and chambering pupils is set to kick off mid-July, says Bar Council national Covid-19 vaccine coordinator Vivekananda Sukumaran.

       “As of June 23, 1,908 members and pupils-in-chambers have registered. Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) is to provide the registrants with vaccination appointments via their MySejahtera by July 15,” he said in a circular issued to members on the Bar Council website yesterday.

       The circular noted priority would be given to those in the high-risk group, above 50, and yet to get their first jab.

       “In view of multiple factors, with regard to vaccination, Mosti will consider fixing appointments of registrants who are currently awaiting their second doses, accordingly,” the circular read.

       The move comes after Mosti agreed to give priority to Malaysian Bar members and pupils-in-chambers who have registered under an immunisation drive spearheaded by the Kuala Lumpur Bar Committee (KLBC).

       Vivekananda said he and secretary Alvin Oh met up with National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme coordinating minister Khairy Jamaluddin on Wednesday to present their vaccination proposal.

       A presentation was given to the minister, highlighting the risks of exposure to Covid-19 faced by lawyers when carrying out their duty.

       “The minister acknowledges the lawyers’ role in the administration of justice and shares his concerns over their safety,” said the circular which was signed by Vivekananda and Oh.