The Malaysian Ministry of Health has raised concerns about a worrying rise in HIV infections among youths under 40 years old, despite the country’s overall infection rate showing a downward trend in recent years.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni revealed that 76% of the newly reported HIV cases involve men, with most attributed to high-risk behaviour. He noted that Sarawak reported 217 new infections in 2024 alone—equating to 8.62 cases per 100,000 people. Among the state’s districts, Kuching recorded the highest with 74 cases (34.1%), followed by Bintulu (36 cases, 16.6%) and Miri (35 cases, 16.1%).
Lukanisman made these remarks at the ASEAN regional forum focused on increasing access to affordable antiretroviral drugs and promoting community-led HIV testing. He emphasised the government’s commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, in line with global health goals. However, he stressed that government policy alone isn’t enough—it is crucial to empower and encourage individuals, especially those at risk, to get tested voluntarily.
Malaysia Still Behind UN’s 95-95-95 HIV Targets
According to the latest national statistics, HIV infection rates in Malaysia have dropped by 50% since 2010. But the country still falls short of the UNAIDS “95-95-95” targets—where 95% of people with HIV should know their status, 95% of those diagnosed should be on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment should have their viral load suppressed.
Currently, Malaysia stands at 64-94-93, meaning only 64% of people living with HIV are aware of their status. Although treatment and suppression rates are encouraging, the gap in diagnosis remains a key barrier.
To close this gap, Lukanisman highlighted the importance of community-led screening strategies. These include outreach programmes driven by trusted NGOs and local groups, which can overcome stigma and make testing more accessible to marginalised communities.
Expanding PrEP and Community Support Initiatives
One successful initiative mentioned was the “Tok Nan House” project, launched by Malaysian AIDS Foundation advisor Datuk Amar Jamilah. This programme provides safe and stigma-free spaces for HIV testing, counselling, and treatment—especially important for younger men reluctant to seek medical help due to social pressures.
Since 2023, Malaysia has also rolled out its national-level Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) programme, a preventive medication that significantly reduces the risk of contracting HIV. Currently, 35 public clinics across the country offer PrEP services, including in key areas of Sarawak such as Kuching, Miri, and Sibu.
Lukanisman concluded by urging the media to play a proactive role in raising awareness and combating discrimination against HIV-positive individuals. He noted that reducing stigma is essential to increasing testing rates and ensuring those living with HIV receive timely and effective care.
With HIV still prevalent among high-risk groups, particularly young males, a multi-pronged approach involving community engagement, medical intervention, and public education is essential to turning the tide.