KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 — The Ministry of Health (MOH) will discuss penalties for government staff refusing to get vaccinated against Covid-19, Health Ministry Khairy Jamaluddin said today.

During the Kedah Covid-19 Immunisation Task Force (CITF) press conference, Khairy said the ministry will discuss the matter with the Public Service Department (JPA) regarding the rejection, despite no proof of any health issues.

"I have asked that employers in certain sectors place the condition that if [employees] want to return to work, they must get vaccinated and we will also discuss with JPA later, on what actions can be taken on civil servants who still refuse to receive vaccination.

"Those who refuse to get vaccinated because of choice and not because of health conditions, the MOH will discuss this and we will get options from JPA on what actions can be taken on civil servants who still refuse to get vaccinated,” the minister said.

Last month, it was reported that 779 teachers in Johor had rejected their Covid-19 vaccinations.

Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has later summoned the Johor Education Department director and the 779 teachers who rejected Covid-19 vaccination for an audience with him.