KUALA LUMPUR: The government's cap on the price of Covid-19 self-testing kits will expand screening coverage to all Malaysians.
MCA International Communication and Diplomacy Bureau chairman Dr Tee Ching Seng said at the lowered price, self-test kits will become more commonplace, allowing individuals, families and businesses to get a quick and accurate diagnosis at their own convenience.
He said this would directly complement the government's efforts to screen people and help control the pandemic situation.
Dr Tee was referring to the move to impose a RM19.90 price cap on the kits from Sunday.
In addition to that, the government indicated plans to provide free kits for B40 families.
"The cost of the pandemic has been unbearable for everyone, especially for the B40. Hence, it is a good initiative to provide free kits for them to protect themselves and others around them."
He drew on the collaboration among World Health Organisation (WHO), two manufacturers and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation's to provide 120 million rapid diagnostic tests to low- and middle-income countries at a maximum price of US$5 (around RM21).
Dr Tee also said as supply increases, the price should drop even further.
"More importantly, the public is cautioned against purchasing non-registered Covid-19 test kits and be scammed by cheaper deals. As we move into the next phase of the National Recovery Plan, we must be more vigilant than ever before, and continue to follow the given standard operating procedures to ensure a smooth transition back to normalcy."