Durex Malaysia and the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) have partnered to launch the Positive Living Program. This program aims to provide psychosocial support for newly diagnosed People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and raise sexual health awareness among young Malaysians. The collaboration solidifies Durex Malaysia’s role in the Malaysian HIV/AIDS CSR landscape and their support for MAF in the fight to end AIDS.
Dr. Raja Iskandar Shah bin Raja Azwa, President of MAC and Trustee of MAF, expressed gratitude towards Durex Malaysia for their support in helping newly diagnosed PLHIV navigate the various challenges they face. The partnership also involves the PT Foundation, which supports a comprehensive approach integrating psychological, medical, social, and economic support under the Positive Living program.
The initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for newly diagnosed individuals and empower them to manage their condition effectively. Additionally, the partnership focuses on educating Malaysians about sexual health and HIV prevention, particularly targeting young people who may engage in unsafe sex practices.
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 an STI 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.
The Durex Global Sex Survey (GSS) 2024 highlighted a concerning gap in knowledge and responsible sexual practices among Malaysians. Despite a high rate of sexual activity, only a small percentage had purchased condoms in the past year, indicating a lack of awareness about the importance of protection. Statistics from the survey revealed misconceptions and misinformation about sexual health, emphasizing the need for open communication and education.
MAF emphasizes the importance of safeguarding sexual health through comprehensive sexual health education, access to preventive measures, and the elimination of stigma. They advocate for a culture where individuals feel comfortable seeking accurate information about sexual health and understand the importance of responsible sexual behavior.
The Positive Living campaign aims to debunk myths surrounding condoms and safe sex practices, promote accurate information, and destigmatize condom use. By supporting those living with HIV, Durex and MAF work towards creating an inclusive society with access to necessary care and support.
The ultimate goal is to create a Malaysia where sexual health is not taboo but a topic of empowerment and community strength. By encouraging open conversations about sexual health, providing accurate information, and promoting responsible sexual behavior, Durex Malaysia and MAF aim to facilitate a future free from HIV stigma and ensure a healthy sex life for all individuals.