SIBU, Sept 13: The spike in Covid-19 cases in Sarawak to four-digit case counts daily has resulted in strong demand for Covid-19 antigen rapid self-test kits.
Speaking to the media during a price inspection exercise today, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry Sibu chief, Kelyn Bolhassan said some shops including pharmacies can sell up to 300 units of the item daily.
“From what we found out today during the inspection, each pharmacy can sell up to between 150 to 300 units a day,” he noted.
The inspection exercise involving 40 premises which started on Sept 5, is to ensure that shops are selling up to 14 types of the item at the ceiling price of RM19.90 per unit.
The ceiling price was implemented on Sept 5. However a one-week grace period which ended on Sept 12 was given following appeals from pharmacies to allow them to clear old stock at the old price.
Kelyn said his department had not received complaints from the public on shops selling the item above the ceiling price.
“The public can make a complaint to us if there are pharmacies selling above the ceiling price and we will take action. Complaints can be made via e-aduan.kpdnhep.gov.my, and WhatsApp 019-2794317,” he said.
All shops regardless of whether they are located in the town area or outskirt of the town have to comply with the ceiling price ruling.
Those caught selling at more than the ceiling price will see action taken against them the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.
The offence provides for a fine of up to RM100,000 or imprisonment not exceeding three years or both, or compounded up to RM50,000 for an individual. For companies, they can be fined up to RM500,000 or compounded up to RM250,000.
Kelyn advised those who are planning to buy the kit online to check whether the seller is registered with the Medical Device Authority so as to avoid buying a fake product. — DayakDaily
