PETALING JAYA: The government has set ceiling prices for Covid-19 self-test kits, with the wholesale price fixed at RM16 a unit and retail price at RM19.90 a unit.
The ceiling prices will take effect from Sept 5.
In a statement, the domestic trade and consumer affairs ministry said the price control was aimed at ensuring the self-test kits are affordable for businesses and the public.
Presently, the self-test kits in the market are priced from RM28 to RM41.
The minister, Alexander Nanta Linggi, said demand for rapid self-test kits was expected to increase following heightened public awareness on regular testing.
The ceiling prices were set under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 and Control of Supplies Act 1961 following consultations with local industry players and importers.
He warned that legal action would be taken against individuals or companies caught selling the test kits beyond the ceiling price.
Individuals may be fined up to RM100,000 or sentenced to a jail term of not more than three years, or both. They may also be issued compounds of up to RM50,000.
Companies may be fined up to RM500,000 or issued compounds of up to RM250,000.
The public may submit complaints against businesses to the ministry here or through its online portal.
They may also contact the call centre at 1800 886 800, the Enforcement Command Centre (ECC) at 03-8882 6245/6088 or WhatsApp to 019-279 4317.
Complaints may also be submitted through the mobile app Ez ADU.
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