Which regions are prioritised for increased Covid-19 sample testing?

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Increased Covid-19 Sample Testing Prioritises Red and Yellow Zone Areas

The capacity of Covid-19 laboratories nationwide is set to be expanded to accommodate a greater volume of sample testing, with a specific focus on samples originating from red and yellow zone areas. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance screening and contact tracing efforts across the country. As of October 14, the utilisation rate of these laboratories stood at 42 per cent of their existing capacity.
Sabah's Laboratory Capacity and Expansion

In Sabah, the Kota Kinabalu Public Health Laboratory (MKAKK), alongside laboratories at Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), currently possesses a combined testing capacity of 2,500 samples per day. Efforts are underway to equip the laboratory at Tawau Kubota Health Clinic to conduct RT-PCR tests, with its operation expected to commence imminently. This development aims to bolster local testing capabilities and reduce the reliance on transporting samples to the peninsula.
National Laboratory Capacity Enhancement

The Ministry of Health (MOH) is actively working to significantly increase the overall maximum capacity for Covid-19 RT-PCR tests to 54,706 daily. This ambitious target is being pursued through collaborative efforts involving 61 laboratories under the MOH, the Malaysian Armed Forces, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), various public and private universities, and private laboratory partners. This integrated approach seeks to leverage the resources of multiple institutions to meet the growing demand for testing.
Role of Antigen Rapid Test Kits

In addition to increasing RT-PCR testing capacity, the utilisation of Antigen Rapid Test Kits (RTK-Ag) is being promoted. These kits are intended to facilitate the early detection of Covid-19 positive cases directly in the field, thereby complementing the more definitive RT-PCR testing. The integration of both testing methodologies is crucial for a comprehensive public health response to the pandemic.

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Which regions are prioritised for increased Covid-19 sample testing?

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