KUALA LUMPUR: A cheaper ceiling price for Covid-19 self-test kits is on the government’s plans, but it will not be too soon, says Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

       He said the Health Ministry and the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry have discussed lowering the ceiling price, but has decided to give a transition time to traders.

       “When we set the ceiling price of self-test kits recently, many traders complained that they did not have time to clear their stocks.

       “We have a fair ceiling price in mind for consumers. But we will announce it a bit later and there will be a transition period for the traders,” said Khairy at a press conference at Hospital Kuala Lumpur after a working visit there on Thursday (Oct 7).

       Currently, the ceiling retail price for the self-test kits is RM19.90, while the wholesale price is at RM16.

       As Malaysia moves towards an endemic phase, the Health Ministry has called on the public to develop more responsible behaviour including taking regular Covid-19 tests if in frequent contact with people.

       Khairy on Wednesday (Oct 6) tweeted that those who intend to “balik kampung” to meet their families should self-tests prior to their journeys.