KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 2 — The Ministry of Health (MOH) will increase its funding for the Malaysian AIDS Foundation’s (MAF) Differentiated HIV Services for Key Populations (DSHKP) programme by RM1 million in 2025, raising the total annual allocation to RM8 million.
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad made the announcement at the Red Ribbon Gala 2024 last Saturday, highlighting the importance of collaboration in combating HIV/AIDS.
“The AIDS response has never been — and should never be — a top-down approach. It has always been a shared responsibility, driven by a whole-of-nation approach where government, civil society, activists, the corporate sector, and other stakeholders collaborate toward a common vision,” Dzulkefly said.
The DSHKP programme targets reducing new HIV infections and improving the quality of life for vulnerable groups through prevention, screening, and linkage to care services at 45 project sites nationwide, including in East Malaysia.
Dzulkefly credited evidence-based strategies, such as the Needle and Syringe Exchange Programme (NSEP), pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and combination antiretroviral therapies like Tenofovir, Lamivudine, and Dolutegravir (TLD), for Malaysia’s progress in combating HIV.
HIV cases among injection drug users have dropped sharply, from 4,038 in 2005 to just 87 in 2023. The estimated population of injection drug users has also declined by 65 per cent, from 170,000 in 2009 to 60,000 in 2022.
“These initiatives come with significant costs — RM92 million was spent in 2023 alone — but they are vital investments in public health,” Dzulkefly said, emphasising that the government’s commitment persisted even during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Minister of Women, Family, and Community Development Nancy Shukri highlighted the importance of tackling stigma and socio-economic barriers alongside medical interventions in combating HIV.
“Addressing the epidemic requires a holistic approach that not only provides medical solutions but also tackles stigma, discrimination, and the socio-economic challenges faced by those affected.
“Issues such as women’s rights, economic equity, and child welfare are deeply intertwined with the fight against HIV/AIDS, demanding collective efforts that prioritise systemic change and individual well-being,” she said.
MAF chairman Prof Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman emphasised the economic benefits of investing in HIV programmes. A study by DM Analytics found that every RM1 spent on such initiatives yields RM14 in productivity gains, underscoring the cost-effectiveness of prevention efforts.
“The corporate sector has become an essential partner in the national AIDS response. Corporate contributions now represent the second-largest source of funding for MAF and the Malaysian AIDS Council (MAC) after the MOH. These partnerships bridge critical gaps, ensuring resources reach the communities and individuals who need them most,” Dr Adeeba said.
Over the past five years, the combined efforts of the Ministry of Finance and the Global Fund have delivered critical services to over 84,000 individuals. This includes providing HIV prevention kits to 76,235 people, HIV testing to 44,190 individuals, and HIV treatment support for 7,580 people.
“It is imperative that we continue to prioritise evidence-based and rights-based programmes. In this regard, we extend our gratitude to the MOH for its bold decision to increase investment in PrEP despite facing resistance from certain quarters,” she added.
The Gala raised RM2.8 million through sponsorships and table sales, with significant contributions from Sunway Group, Yayasan Petronas, and Karex.
Sunway Group founder and chairman Jeffrey Cheah reaffirmed their long-term commitment to the “Ending AIDS” mission.
“Sunway is honoured to be a long-term partner of the MAF. Together, we are united by a powerful mission: to promote health, dignity, and equality for all. Through this partnership, we advocate tirelessly for the rights and well-being of those affected by HIV and AIDS, striving to forge a world where no one is left behind,” he said.
The event also honoured KOMITED Malaysia, a community-based organisation led by former drug users, with the Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Award. KOMITED was recognised for its social integration programmes, which provide job training and skill-building opportunities to empower vulnerable individuals.
The award included RM20,000, a trophy, and a Certificate of Excellence.
