Covid self-test kits now available for RM6.90

Covid-19 self-test kits are now available for as low as RM6.90 a unit, says Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi.

He said this followed the move to expand the sale of test kits to supermarkets, convenience store networks and petrol stations in stages.

“The domestic trade and consumer affairs ministry was told the prices offered at supermarkets and convenient stores are as low as RM6.90 each while KK Supermart is selling them for only RM6.60 each.

“This is surely very good news for consumers in the light of the situation today,” he said when launching the Covid-19 self-test kit sales at KK Supermart in klia2 and inspecting the 2021 Deepavali Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme in Sepang today.

Prior to this, Covid-19 self-test kits had received conditional approval from the Malaysian Device Authority (MDA) to be sold at selected clinics and pharmacies.

The government fixed the maximum retail price for Covid-19 self-test kits at RM19.90 per unit while the wholesale price was RM16.00 a unit effective Sept 5.

Nanta said the decision of the government to expand the sale of Covid-19 self-test kits would bring down the price with the readiness of stock and through competition in the retail sector.

As of Oct 28, he said 2,570 business premises nationwide had been approved to sell Covid-19 self-test kits, 494 of which are under KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd including at klia2.

On the new ceiling price for Covid-19 self-test kits, Nanta said this would be announced soon and that its determination would take into account all aspects including the interest of consumers and traders.

“The business environment must be centred on supply and demand. It is not necessary for the government to use its power to restrict and regulate,” he added.