KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysians were shocked and dismayed when news about 10,000 residents in Kelantan not turning up for their vaccination appointment was published in the media.
The Star reported that most of the individuals who decided to skip it out were primarily senior citizens aged 60 and above, citing health problems and personal issues as the reason for their absenteeism.
But last Sunday (May 30), a 105-year-old man named Jaafar Awang Mat showed up to receive his COVID-19 vaccine and is believed to be the oldest individual to do so in Malaysia.
A photo of Jaafar holding a placard with the words, ‘I have been vaccinated’ written on it at the vaccination center (PPV) made huge waves online since Monday (June 1).
Jaafar’s granddaughter, Noor Azriena Syamsuri Md Nor, better known as Suri, told Mstar that her grandfather received his first dose of the AstraZeneca jab at a PPV in Dewan Sri Tunjong.
Suri said that Jafaar is 99 years old according to his National Registration Identity Card (NRIC), but is actually turning 105-years-old next month.
“People used to set their IC date later than their actual birth date, so If you follow the actual age of AyahPa (Jaafar), he is 105 years old this year.
“Alhamdulilah, AyahPa is still healthy and energetic.”
She also explained that her grandfather, fondly known as PokPa among the villagers, has seven children, more than 35 grandchildren and more than 30 great-grandchildren.
She added that Jaafar voluntarily signed up for the vaccination programme as he was worried about the current situation in Malaysia.
“AyahPa is worried about the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in Kelantan, with most areas turning into red zones.”
Suri said that he remained calm during the vaccination and experienced no side effects so far.
Sources: Cover image via mStar
Editor: Raymond Chen
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
