Senior minister Radzi Jidin said the matter was decided after the ministry’s price negotiation committee had confirmed that the three companies had met all conditions.

He said the self-test kits were delivered to 140 district education offices and state education departments on Sept 25, in time for the school session from October to December.

“The basis of consideration in selecting these companies is that the self-test kit meets specifications, the offer price is favourable to the government and added value offered by the company.

“Another consideration is the financial capability of the companies in delivering the kits before or by Sept 26,” he said during question time at the Dewan Rakyat sitting today.

Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (PH-Setiawangsa) had asked for details on procuring the self-test kits for schools, including the cost incurred by the ministry.

Radzi said the procurement was done through direct negotiations due to urgency as the self-test kits had to be supplied to schools before they reopened on Oct 3.

He said the ministry had submitted an application for the procurement through direct negotiations on Aug 9 and it was approved by the finance ministry on Sept 1, while the letters of acceptance were issued on Sept 3.

“Among the other conditions set by the finance ministry was that the companies be approved and listed by the Medical Devices Authority of the health ministry.

“The education ministry also stipulated that kits that use only the saliva test would be considered as they are easier and safer for students,” he added.

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