KUALA LUMPUR: The government has gazetted the Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test Kit (Self Test) as a controlled item effective Wednesday (Dec 1) to ensure sufficient supplies in the market.

       Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry Enforcement director, Azman Adam said that to ensure its availability and sufficient supply in the market, the government took proactive measures by gazetting the test kits under the Control of Supplies (Controlled Goods) Order (No.6) 2021 on Nov 24, which came into force on Dec 1, 2021.

       According to him, currently, the supply of test kits is found to be sufficient in the market and until now no complaints regarding the lack of supply have been received.

       "The Ministry would like to remind traders to continue complying with the provisions of the law relating to the Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test Kit to avoid facing strict action," he said in a statement Wednesday.

       According to Azman, traders who commit offences in relation to the matter can be prosecuted under Section 22(1) of the Control of Supplies Act 1961 which carries a penalty of up to RM1,000,000 or imprisonment not exceeding two years or both for individuals; and companies can be fined up to RM2,000,000.

       He said the test kits are available at pharmacies and health facilities, as well as at registered premises such as supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol stations.

       He added that consumers who have any information regarding the misconduct of traders, can report to the Ministry for further action via Whatsapp at 019-279 4317, the e-aduan.kpdnhep portal, call centre 1-800-886-800, email to e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my, Ez ADU KPDNHEP and the Enforcement Command Centre (ECC) at 03-8882 6088/ 6245. - Bernama