By Nazrinzulaiqa Hasbi
KUCHING: Members of the public here agreed that the Covid-19 test kit should be subsidised by the federal government.
With the rise of cases, the Covid-19 test kit plays a crucial role in ensuring the nation’s safety and wellbeing by reducing the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a survey by New Sarawak Tribune last Saturday, it was found that the public was of the opinion that the test kit should be reasonably priced as to not burden the consumers.
The respondents agreed that the subsidised price of the self-test kit will indirectly help to reduce Covid-19 transmissions, due to the early detection method it provides as well as reducing the need for public gatherings at testing facilities.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affair Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said that his ministry conducted a study regarding engagement sessions and cost studies of the self-test kit and the supply to licensed companies covering every distribution chain up to the retail level, such as pharmacies and clinics.
The Health Ministry also released a list of brands of Covid-19 self-test kits that have been granted conditional approval for public use which includes the Alltest Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test (Oral/Fluid) and Standard Q Covid-19 AG Saliva Home Test.
Victoria Umar, Student
It’s easier to manage and maintain our health and safety (with the readily available test kit) during the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition, it also provides the public with accurate test results, relieving us of our worries.
Elvina Tony, Student
A Covid-19 swab test is not something everyone can afford. With the current condition growing more concerning, people are advised to purchase the Covid-19 kit so that they can check their health if they have any symptoms and the price reduction could greatly help in making it affordable for everyone.
Rosni Ahmad, Entrepreneur
The self-test kit will be able to further reduce the spread of the virus. Through testing, those who are infected are able to properly quarantine. If those who are feeling ill get tested and are positive, they can help save the lives of thousands.
Maxalexter Oneil, Front office desk
The subsidies from the government can ease the public’s financial burden, especially when some citizens have experienced financial problems as a result of losing their jobs since the pandemic started.
Abdul Aziz Saini, Entrepreneur
The subsidy given can greatly ease the burden of the people, especially the B40 group. This is because for them, the test kit may be quite expensive due to the number of dependents in their family on top of having other expenditures while also trying to care for their health as well.
Howell Sarok Francis Mengga, Student
Subsidies on self-test kits provided by the government can ease people’s burden as well as reduce the spread of Covid-19 virus infection.
