KUALA BERANG (Bernama): Prices of Covid-19 self-test kits will be reduced by the end of this month to make it more affordable for parents to carry out screening test for their children before the school session starts on Oct 3.

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

       "Sales will not be limited to pharmacies and clinics as it is now 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 but it is also easily available.

       "Although the price reduction has not been finalised yet, the amount will be affordable and will not burden the people compared to the current price," he said after inspecting the vaccination process of 327 Orang Asli in Kampung Sungai Berua which was also attended by state health director Datuk Dr Kasemani Embong here on Saturday (Sept 25).

       Starting Sept 5, the maximum retail price for a Covid-19 self-test kit is RM19.90 while the wholesale price is RM16.

       Commenting further, Rosol, who is also Hulu Terengganu MP, said the Ministry had a meeting with representatives of several pharmaceutical operators' associations and they agreed to reduce the price of self-test kits as recommended by the government.

       "Although the current price is considered cheap, it can be quite high for parents with schooling children. A family of five children would need RM100 to buy the self-test kits.

       "The new price will not be a burden and the important thing is to carry out tests to ensure their children are healthy before returning to school," he said. – Bernama