KUCHING: The Youth Awareness Programme: Towards a Zero HIV/AIDS Community 2030 served as a crucial platform for the younger generation to understand their role in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
The event, organised by the Sarawak General Hospital Visitors Board (ALPHUS) in collaboration with the Sarawak Student Leadership and Excellence Organization (PKKPS) and the Puncak Borneo Welfare Association (PENYIRASIK), was attended by nearly 400 participants from institutions of higher learning.
“Organisers highlighted that while HIV infection rates in Malaysia have shown a slight decline, the main challenges remain social stigma and limited access to treatment,” according to a press statement by ALPHUS, today.
The programme was designed with four main objectives: to enhance knowledge, encourage behavioral change, eliminate discrimination, and increase social awareness.
Programme director Dr shak Johari praised the enthusiasm of participants, despite the event having to limit the number of institutions due to venue capacity constraints.
“Youth involvement is critical as they are the future leaders who will carry this awareness message to the broader community,” he said.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, who officiated the programme, called on the community to unite in supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS.
In his speech, he emphasised the importance of education and social responsibility to ensure that no one is excluded from access to treatment.
“We must ensure that HIV screening and treatment are available to all. Through collective efforts, stigma can be eradicated, and our community can become more inclusive,” he said.
The programme was well-received by various institutions, including the Kuching Ministry of Health Training Institute and Sidma College Sarawak.
Although four institutions were unable to participate this time, the organisers promised to expand participation in future programmes.
Participants also engaged in interactive sessions with expert panelists, including Dr Chua, Dr Samuel, and Sister Connie, who discussed methods of transmission, prevention, and support for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
“This programme opened my eyes to our social responsibilities as youth,” said a participant from Kuching Vocational College.
The programme not only creates more aware individuals but also fosters a more empathetic and health-conscious society.
With the goal of a zero HIV/AIDS community by 2030, collective efforts like this prove that change begins with awareness and unified action.
