Picture taken from https://www.lexispd.com/media/news/covid-19-movement-control-order
Reflections from the Pandemic: A Personal Journey of Conviction and Resilience
By: Maj Noor Azman (R)
The pandemic period, especially during the Movement Control Order (MCO), was one of the most challenging times in my life. As someone who chose to remain unvaccinated, I found myself caught in a storm of restrictions, judgments, and personal trials that tested both my patience and principles.
It all began when my employer informed me that I could no longer report to work because of my vaccination status. The shock and frustration were overwhelming. In that moment of pressure, I firmly replied, “Give me a termination letter, then only will I leave.”
Fortunately, the Human Resources department could not find any lawful basis for termination due to my personal medical decision. That moment of relief allowed me to continue working—and I have remained in the same job until today.
During those MCO months, another daily struggle awaited at the roadblocks. The requirement to show the MySejahtera application became a constant source of anxiety. To reach my workplace, I often had to take alternative routes, zigzagging through backroads on my motorcycle. I was stopped several times, but thankfully, most of the police and army personnel were compassionate enough to understand and let me pass. Without their kindness, I might have lost my livelihood.
Picture taken from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ops_Covid19_Tentera_Mula_Operasi_Bantu_Pdrm_Di_Shah_Alam.png
The most difficult part, however, was living under what felt like a system of exclusion. Basic necessities such as food and household supplies became almost inaccessible. Entry into malls, grocery stores, and even small shops required proof of vaccination. I often had to wait until closing hours to quietly buy essentials from small neighbourhood stores. Life, at that point, felt like living in the shadows—isolated and unseen.
At work, I would eat my packed lunch alone by the roadside, away from my colleagues. Many were hesitant to come near me, as if I carried a threat. Ironically, despite the stigma, I never once fell ill. There were no visits to restaurants, no gatherings, only cold, packed meals and quiet days that stretched into months, and eventually years.
The emotional toll was heavy. Over time, feelings of being a pariah—an outcast—began to surface. One of my daughters had to withdraw from her diploma programme because she was not allowed to attend physical classes without vaccination. Though disappointed, I stood firm in my decision: I did not want mRNA-based injections for my family.
Today, she works in a factory—not a glamorous job, but an honest one. She remains healthy, strong, and grounded. And that, to me, is what truly matters.
Some people have called me foolish for enduring unnecessary hardship. Perhaps they are right in their own eyes. Yet, I have no regrets. I would rather lose convenience than compromise my conscience or the health of my loved ones.
In the end, life is about choices—guided by our beliefs, values, and understanding. We may not always agree with one another, but no one should ever be coerced into decisions that concern their own body and health. Freedom of choice, tempered by respect for others, must remain the foundation of a just society.
My story is not meant to provoke, but to reflect. It is simply a reminder of the unseen struggles many endured in silence during those uncertain times.
May we all emerge from that dark chapter with greater empathy, wisdom, and appreciation for the freedom to choose our own path.
