MAF x Durex launch Positive Living campaign, focuses on HIV/AIDS education, providing support for PLHIV  

Durex Malaysia and the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) have launched the ‘Positive Living’ campaign, focusing on education and destigmatisation of sexual health issues, at Rumah Tangsi, Kuala Lumpur on August 6, 2024.

The program aimed at providing psychosocial support for newly diagnosed People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and promoting sexual health awareness among young Malaysians.

The partnership focuses on educating Malaysians with accurate sexual health information, reducing stigma around condom use and supporting PLHIV to foster an inclusive society with accessible care and support.

The program featured a panel discussion and Q&A session with key representatives from Durex Malaysia and MAF on sexual behaviours, informed by the latest findings from the Durex Global Sex Survey 2024.

Malaysian AIDS Council president and Malaysian AIDS Foundation trustee Assoc Prof Dr Raja Iskandar Shah Raja Azwa highlighted the critical need for support systems for newly diagnosed PLHIV.

“Newly diagnosed PLHIV face significant psychological, social, medical and economic challenges. The initial shock of diagnosis often leads to anxiety, depression and concerns about stigma and discrimination. These individuals may struggle with self-esteem and fear of ostracism by family, friends, and the broader community, while workplace discrimination and healthcare stigma further complicate their situation,” he said.

Dr. Raja Iskandar Shah also acknowledged the grant’s implementing partner. “We deeply appreciate the outstanding work done by our steadfast partner, the PT Foundation, in leading a comprehensive approach that integrates psychological, medical, social, and economic support under the Positive Living program.

“This initiative, supported by a multi-year grant from Durex Malaysia, allows us to significantly enhance the quality of life for newly diagnosed individuals, aiding them in effectively managing their condition.”

Jerome Goh, head of marketing, OTC & Intimate Well-being, Malaysia & Singapore, Reckitt said the Durex Global Sex Survey (GSS) 2024 revealed significant gaps in sexual health knowledge among Malaysians, highlighting the need for comprehensive sexual health education and open communication.

“Shockingly, the survey revealed that only 24% of Malaysians have purchased condoms in the past year, despite 70% being sexually active. With 7 in 10 people being sexually active, it is crucial to address the realities of sexual behavior.”

“Condoms are not just contraceptives; they are lifesavers. They are the first line of defense against a host of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Yet, misconceptions and misinformation continue to hinder their widespread use,” he said.

The partnership also aims to destigmatise condom use, positioning it as a symbol of responsible sexual behavior.

Additionally, it seeks to reduce discrimination, which remains a significant barrier to effective HIV prevention and treatment.

“We must create a culture where individuals feel comfortable seeking accurate information about sexual health. A culture where they know that pleasure and protection can coexist and where they understand that their choices have consequences, not just for themselves but for their partners and communities,” added Goh.

The Durex Global Sex Survey 2024 covered 36 countries and surveyed 29,500 respondents aged 18 and above, including Malaysia.

Among other alarming statistics were:

• Over half of Malaysians surveyed in the Durex GSS 2024 did not consider wearing a condom the first time they engaged in intercourse (51.77%).

• 31.62% of Malaysians surveyed firmly believe that they cannot contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if they are not engaging in penetrative sex, while 33.88% are uncertain.

• Only 20.36% of Malaysians are aware that women can get pregnant even when they are on their period.

• Just over 1 in 10 were asked to use condoms by their partners during their first sexual experience, with withdrawal and period tracking being the most prevalent forms of pregnancy prevention.

• As many as 2 in 5 have had sex without protection against unplanned pregnancy, with a third having sex without protection against STIs.

In addressing this issue, MAF emphasises that safeguarding sexual health is crucial for the well-being of individuals and communities. Comprehensive sexual health education, access to preventive measures, and the elimination of stigma are key components in reducing the spread of HIV and other STIs.

“The stigmatisation of sex education and open conversation is leading to a rise in HIV infection through sexual transmission compared to injecting drug use based on current data.

“The fight against HIV has come a long way. Thanks to advancements in prevention methods like consistent condom use, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), advancements in Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), and accessible HIV testing, we’re seeing a decrease in HIV transmission rates,” said Malaysian AIDS Council vice president Dr Dinesh Mahalingam.

Hospital Kuala Lumpur consultant infectious disease physician Dr Khairil Erwan Khalid sheds light on the life-changing importance of maintaining an undetectable viral load in HIV treatment. His insights revealed the crucial step in preventing transmission, ensuring safer sexual activity and a brighter future for those living with HIV.

Meanwhile, Phoenix Ho, senior manager, brand purpose and sustainability MYSG at Reckitt, highlighted the importance of condoms in safeguarding sexual health and their effectiveness in preventing STIs, HIV and unintended pregnancies.

Durex is a brand of condoms and personal lubricants owned by British multinational company Reckitt. Reckitt’s other consumer brands in hygiene, health and nutrition, include Air Wick, Dettol, Durex, Enfagrow, Finish, Gaviscon, Harpic, Shieldtox, Mucinex, Nurofen, Strepsils, Vanish and Veet.

The Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF), an NGO, was formed in 1993 to raise and administer funds to support the activities and programmes of Malaysian AIDS Council, an umbrella organisation that support and coordinate the efforts of NGOs working on HIV and AIDS issues in Malaysia.