KUALA LUMPUR: The price of the Covid-19 self-test kit will be reduced by the end of the month to make it more affordable for parents to have their children screened before the start of school on Oct 3.

       Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Rosol Wahid said the latest price would be announced soon.

       “Its sales will not be limited to pharmacies and clinics, but will be expanded to other business premises such as hypermarkets and mini markets.

       “This will make it easier for the people because not only is the price cheaper, it will also be easily available.

       “Although the quantum of reduction has not been finalised yet, it will be affordable and will not burden the people compared to the current price,” he told reporters after witnessing the vaccination of 327 Orang Asli in Kampung Sungai Berua yesterday.

       The ministry had from Sept 5 set the maximum retail price for a Covid-19 self-test kit at RM19.90 while the wholesale price is RM16.

       Rosol, who is also the Hulu Terengganu MP, said the ministry held a meeting with representatives of several pharmaceutical associations which agreed to reduce the price of the self-test kit.

       “Although the current price is considered cheap, it is quite high for parents, especially those whose children are still in school.

       “A family of five would need RM100 to buy the self-test kits. The new price will not be burdensome. The important thing is to carry out the test to ensure that their children are healthy,” he said. — Bernama