LANGKAWI (Bernama): The Health Ministry will be tabling a proposal and policy to make immunisation vaccination compulsory.

"I will be bringing the matter to the Health Ministry post-Cabinet meeting, and if it is supported, it will be brought to the Cabinet.

"I believe there will be arguments for and against the proposal, and the ministry will consider all views seriously," said its minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (pic).

On a separate matter, Dr Dzulkefly said the ministry would not be proceeding with the proposal to set up real estate investment trust (REIT) to source for additional fund for the ministry.

He said the decision was taken after conducting several studies and tabling it before Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and the Cabinet, as well as discussions with the Finance Ministry.

"I have discussed with the Finance Ministry and tabled to the Cabinet, and was asked by the Prime Minister that the Health Ministry review the proposal as we have found other better financial instruments.

"I formed the conclusion in the ministry post-Cabinet meeting not to use REIT in the effort to generate funds for the development and improvement of Health Ministry facilities. I also have other options for consideration," he told reporters after attending the 'Sihat Walafiat' Islamic Forum at Al Hana Mosque here on Saturday (Feb 23) night. – Bernama