More needs to be done to curb rise in HIV cases among students

PETALING JAYA: Student groups and leaders acknowledged that not enough is being done to raise awareness among their peers about high-risk behaviours that could lead to HIV.

Universiti Malaya Feminism Club (UMFC) president Chin Jes Weng said the increasing trend of HIV cases means there is a need for sexual and reproductive health and rights advocacy for tertiary students.

“Sex is taboo in society, and it does not help with protecting students’ health,” she said. She said not enough is being done to spread awareness about these issues.

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“A lot more can be done, especially by the authorities since they have more power and resources,” she said. Currently, her society is focusing on campaigning against anti-sexual harassment; however, they will plan to advocate for sexual and reproductive health and rights in the future.

Monash University Student Association (Musa) Welfare Department co-head Sherlee, 21, said the rising HIV cases among tertiary students are worrying.

“Nevertheless, it is the department’s responsibility to share and advocate for it at the university,” she said.

Although the department has not specifically addressed HIV, she said they previously held events about sexual health.

In the future, she said that they would consider making more social media content and events about HIV. To support the wellbeing of the current students, Sherlee said the department has a team of 20 counsellors.

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“We are open-minded and inclusive; those who need help can just reach out to us,” she said.

Malaysian Youth Council (MBM) president Mohd Izzat Afifi Abdul Hamid described it as a concerning trend, especially considering the lifting of Covid-19 movement restrictions in Malaysia.

“However, there are also socioeconomic reasons at play, such as poverty, poor social cohesion, and a lack of education towards health sciences, among others,” he said, adding that cases may possibly be underreported due to the stigma that comes with being an HIV patient.

He said MBM has constant dialogues with universities, colleges, youth associations and civil society organisations to facilitate discussions on the matter.

This includes raising awareness about the topic through innovative ways to educate the youth about HIV, its impact, symptoms and the available help.