THE government will further reduce the ceiling price of three-ply masks, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi said.

“The government had initially set the price for three-ply masks at RM1.50 before lowering it to RM1.20 (effective August 15),” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.

“But following public feedback, the government will lower the price (RM1.20) again,” said the Kapit MP during Ministers’ Question Time.

Alexander was responding to Khoo Poay Tiong (Kota Melaka-PH), who asked if the ceiling price for masks will be reduced further to ease costs for low-income earners.

Before the Covid-19 outbreak, three-ply masks were sold at RM0.50-RM0.75 per piece or RM25-RM35 per box of 50.

But following a worldwide shortage caused by the pandemic, the price skyrocketed.

On April 1, the government stepped in to set the ceiling price for three-ply masks at RM1.50 each. 

The ceiling price was subsequently revised to RM1.20 each, effective August 15 following the mandatory mask ruling that began on August 1.

Masks must now be worn in crowded public places, defined as most retail outlets and houses of worship, and are compulsory on all forms of public transportation. – August 6, 2020.