PETALING JAYA: Consumer groups have given a mixed reaction to the ceiling price set on self-testing Covid-19 kits as the country strategises to move into the endemic phase.

       From Sept 5, the ceiling price of the Covid-19 self-test kits will be RM16 for wholesale and RM19.90 for retail.

       Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association president Datuk Dr N. Marimuthu said the price should be lowered to RM9.90 to make it more affordable for the public.

       “We need the self-test kits priced cheaper to allow more extensive detection of the virus.

       “The new pricing still makes it difficult, especially for those working in factories to purchase and utilise if needed.

       “For a family of four, the cost of purchasing test kits amounts to around RM80 which could instead be used to buy groceries,” he said.

       Additionally, he urged those yet to be inoculated to do so as it would help the country move forward from the pandemic.

       Consumer Association of Penang education officer NV Subbarow however said the two ceiling prices were reasonable.

       “Given that the demand for self-test kits is higher now, the government should ensure the products are genuine.

       “Consumers are urged to purchase them only from authorised sellers whether it be on the ground or online,” said Subbarow.

       In Putrajaya, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin announced the ceiling price yesterday in a joint statement, saying that it would be effective from Sept 5.

       The ceiling price will see a significant reduction in retail prices, as many of these kits are being sold for RM28 to RM40 at pharmacies.

       At present, there are 11 brands of self-test kits that have been approved by the ministry for public use.

       Out of the 11, seven test kits use saliva samples and four others use nasal swab samples.

       At a press conference on Wednesday, Khairy said making self-test kits more affordable and accessible was the government’s plan to implement regular Covid-19 testing among the public.

       Those selling these self-test kits above the ceiling price can be penalised under the Price Control and Anti-profiteering Act 2011.

       For individuals, they can be fined up to RM100,000 or imprisoned not more than three years or both for the offence.

       They can also be compounded up to RM50,000 under the law while companies are liable to a fine of RM500,000 or a compound of up to RM250,000 for the offence.