KOTA BARU: Close collaboration between the Health Ministry and health-related non-governmental organisations (NGOs) is a key element in strengthening infectious disease prevention and implementing early interventions, especially among high-risk groups, according to Kelantan Health director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin.
According to Bernama, he said strategic approaches such as outreach activities conducted by the Kelantan Patient Intermediary Association (Sahabat), with support from the Malaysian AIDS Foundation, serve as a good example of an effective collaboration between government agencies and NGOs.
He said collaboration with NGOs like Sahabat enables the ministry to reach out to high-risk groups such as drug addicts who use syringes and men who have sex with men.
"Health education programmes and field activities conducted since 2006 by Sahabat in partnership with the ministry have had a positive impact on raising public awareness about HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, and Hepatitis C.
"The health education provided not only aims to raise awareness of the importance of prevention and early diagnosis but also helps protect close contacts such as wives and children from the risk of infection,” he said in a statement on Monday (July 21).
Dr Zaini's statement comes hot on the heels of a police raid on a supposed "gay sex party" a bungalow in Kemumin, Kota Bharu, last week.
However, the raid has sparked controversy after several NGOs and individuals denied that any illicit activities took place, claiming instead that the gathering was a health outreach event focused on HIV awareness and testing.
Commenting further, Dr Zaini said the ministry remains committed to a public health approach that prioritises prevention, early intervention, and comprehensive treatment access for all levels of society.
He said this is in line with the national health policy, which takes into account religious values and cultural sensitivities.
"Such strategic collaborations will continue to be expanded as part of efforts to strengthen the community support system in addressing public health issues in an inclusive and effective manner,” he said.
