Malaysia recorded a significant increase in HIV cases in 2024, with the majority of new infections affecting young adults. According to official health data, 75% of the 3,185 newly reported patients were between the ages of 20 and 39 — a statistic that has prompted renewed calls for stronger prevention strategies and nationwide awareness campaigns.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli disclosed in Parliament that while the country saw a sharp 50% drop in annual new HIV cases between 2000 and 2009, the pace of decline slowed drastically from 2010 onwards, with only a 27% reduction achieved over the following decade. As of last year, Malaysia’s HIV notification rate stands at 9.4 cases per 100,000 people.
Sexual Transmission Now Main Cause of Infection
Dr Zulkifli highlighted a major shift in the way HIV is spreading in Malaysia. In earlier decades, the primary route of infection was through the sharing of contaminated needles, particularly among drug users. However, recent figures show that sexual contact has now become the dominant mode of transmission.
In 2024 alone, 96% of new cases were linked to sexual activity. Of these, 32% involved heterosexual contact, while 64% were attributed to homosexual or bisexual encounters. Health experts warn that without targeted sexual health education and better access to prevention tools, the infection rate among younger Malaysians could rise even further.
Urgent Action Needed to Protect Youth
The sharp rise in cases has alarmed public health officials, who stress the need for early detection through regular testing, increased public awareness, and stigma reduction. Preventive measures such as condom use, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and accessible HIV treatment must be made widely available to vulnerable groups.
Authorities are expected to step up outreach programmes in schools, workplaces, and community centres. NGOs and healthcare providers have also been urged to collaborate in providing free testing, counselling, and treatment to ensure that those at risk receive timely support.
Public health advocates say that without swift, coordinated intervention, the resurgence of HIV in Malaysia could place long-term strain on healthcare resources and significantly impact the country’s younger workforce.