"If you reject it, there are two things, social aid will not be given, (and a) fine," Riza told reporters. Indonesia announced a presidential order earlier this month stipulating anyone who refuses vaccines could be denied social assistance or government services or made to pay a fine. The new regulation follows months of public skepticism and lingering doubts about whether coronavirus vaccines are safe, effective and halal, or permissible by Islam. Usman Hamid, a director at Amnesty International Indonesia, said enforcing vaccinations were not the answer. "A blanket mandate on vaccination, especially one that includes criminal penalties, is a clear violation of human rights," Hamid said.

Source: bd News24 February 18, 2021 11:26 UTC