KUALA LUMPUR, March 17 — The Malaysian AIDS Council (MAC) today criticised local media agencies for sensationalising news involving People Living with HIV (PLHIV), saying such reporting reinforces stigma and discrimination against the community.
The council cited a recent case in which news headlines linked PLHIV to a sexual offence allegedly committed by a man at a Ramadan bazaar in Temerloh, Pahang. It said the misleading and clickbait-style reporting erodes public empathy and undermines the dignity of PLHIV.
“The portrayal of PLHIV as criminals may further fuel stigma and deepen the societal divide, ultimately fostering discrimination against this vulnerable group,” MAC president Assoc Prof Dr Raja Iskandar Shah Raja Azwa said in a statement.
He said acceptance of PLHIV is key to tackling AIDS-related stigma and discrimination, adding that a supportive environment encourages more individuals to seek testing, treatment, and support without fear of judgment.
“By cultivating a culture of acceptance, we empower PLHIV to lead healthier and more meaningful lives while contributing to the global fight to eliminate stigma, discrimination, and ultimately, the HIV epidemic,” he said.
Dr Raja Iskandar urged journalists to exercise greater sensitivity when reporting on PLHIV-related issues, emphasising the media’s role in shaping public perceptions.
“The media holds a unique position to drive meaningful change that can reshape the future for PLHIV in this country,” he said.
PLHIV in Malaysia continues to face stigma and discrimination in workplaces, educational institutions, and even health care facilities, MAC said.
According to MAC’s Advocacy Department, over 40 cases of discrimination were recorded in 2024 alone, though the actual number is likely higher as many PLHIV do not report incidents due to fear of persecution. Institutional policies and practices, both in government and private sectors, also contribute to discrimination, it added.
Malaysia has pledged to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 in line with global targets, but advocacy groups say achieving this goal will require greater efforts to combat stigma and ensure access to health care and social support for PLHIV.
