Sarawak aims to halt HIV-AIDS transmission by 2030 through stronger prevention, rehabilitation and partnerships with NGOs and community organisations.
MIRI: Sarawak is targeting to effectively halt the spread of HIV-AIDS in the state by 2030, with health authorities working closely with various NGOs and community organisations, according to state officials.
Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting said coordinated efforts are underway involving the Malaysian AIDS Foundation, Borneo AIDS Foundation and other partners to strengthen prevention, education and rehabilitation programmes.
Speaking at the opening of the upgraded Teratai Kasih Tok Nan HIV-AIDS rehabilitation halfway centre in Miri, he said the initiative represents a key component of the state’s broader public health strategy.
“The Malaysian AIDS Foundation, Borneo AIDS Foundation and similar NGOs have put in great effort to help sufferers.
“They are also doing a good job in educational programmes as well as prevention efforts in Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri,” he said.
Ting said the upgraded halfway centre would serve as a rehabilitation facility to support people living with HIV-AIDS, with the aim of helping them reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives.
“We are hopeful we can end HIV-AIDS in Sarawak by 2030,” he said.
He added that government agencies, NGOs, the private sector and the wider community must work together to address the issue effectively.
Past reports have shown that Kuching, Miri, Sibu and Bintulu have recorded significant numbers of HIV-AIDS cases in recent years, with concerns linked to high-risk behaviours in certain segments of society.
Ting stressed that rehabilitation centres play an important role in helping affected individuals regain stability and independence.
He added that those who complete rehabilitation should be supported in returning to society, securing employment and supporting their families.
He also urged the public to avoid stigmatising people living with HIV-AIDS, emphasising the need for compassion and inclusion.
“Society must not stigmatise sufferers and must give them a chance to live normally in society,” he said.
