'Without proof, no probe on Orang Asli women forced to take birth control jabs'

The government needs proof of allegations that Orang Asli women in Gua Musang were tricked or forced into accepting birth control jabs before taking action.

Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad (photo, above) said today when asked about reports that his ministry’s personnel had threatened the women to take birth control injections without prior informed consent.

“This does not make sense but the allegation has been made, so they need to come out with proof and evidence ... everything must have proof and evidence,” he said when met at the Parliament lobby.

Furthermore, he had confidence that his ministry staff followed the standard operating procedure (SOP) when administering the jabs.

“In such instances, all will be informed of the pros and cons of procedures. This is a very procedural thing and our staff are trained.

“I find it strange that some are alleging there were threats. This is beyond what I can imagine,” he elaborated.

Orang Asli activist Nora Kantin previously alleged that newlyweds among the community were especially targeted and forced to take the injections after having just one child or risk having their medical cards confiscated.

Earlier today, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department P Waythamoorthy responded to the allegation, saying he was shocked and would set up a panel to probe the matter.

This appeared to contradict Dzulkefly’s stance on the matter.

“There is no need for me to investigate.

“If the allegation has merit, then we will look into it,” he said, adding that those who made the allegation had the burden of proof.

At another press conference today, the health minister had explained that the birth control medications were administered to Orang Asli women to avoid complications associated with anaemia.

Dzulkefly said the intervention was done out of a sense of responsibility as it is important for women with anaemia to avoid pregnancy. - Mkini