It’s sad that we live in a society where not everyone can afford the simplest necessities.
And now, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are new products that are considered essentials besides the basics like food and shelter, one of which are face masks.
Luckily, our authorities are aware of the need to bring down the ceiling price of face masks and have managed to agree to RM1 apiece.
As according to BERNAMA, Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (MDTCA) Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi said that the government agreed to reduce the ceiling price of the three-layer face mask to RM1 a piece and are working towards further reducing it in an effort to help with the people’s burden after the government ordered the compulsory use of face masks in public.
“I would like to inform that the price of the three-layer face mask will be further reduced to RM1 a piece at the retail level, meaning the wholesale price is 95 cents. The move is hoped to help reduce the burden of the people and parents in having to provide face masks for their children,” he said.
“The ministry is also prepared to further lower the ceiling price from time to time. We will look and study again on the RM1 price with stakeholders,” he added.
After all, three-layer face masks are known to be highly protective against the Covid-19 virus as it consists of an inner layer that absorbs, a middle layer that filters, and an outer layer made from a nonabsorbent material like polyester.
Nanta’s announcement comes in response to a question by Chong Chieng Jen (PH – Stampin) on the ministry’s rationale in raising the maximum price of a three-layer face mask from RM0.80 apiece to RM1.50 apiece.
He added that the demand for face masks have gone up, resulting in manufacturers increasing production and the price dropping.
Stay tuned for more updates.
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