Sarawak govt contributes RM2.25 mln to expand HIV support services

Borneo Post

2 days ago

(from left) Dr Raja Iskandar, Dr Ismuni, Abdul Karim, Jamilah and Jasmin pose for a group photo with the mock cheques for RM2.25 million and RM200,000 contributed by the Sarawak government during the event in Kuching. — Photo by Kentigern Minggu
KUCHING (July 20): The Sarawak government has contributed RM2.25 million to support the staffing, operations and expansion of Teratak Kasih Tok Nan (TKTN), a community-based HIV support centre, over the next three years.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the centre is set to expand to Miri and Bintulu, extending its HIV support network.
'We take the issue of HIV and AIDS seriously. The increasing number of new cases is a concern we monitor closely. There is no room for complacency,' he said in his speech at the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) Kuching Gala 2025 at a hotel here last night.
His speech was delivered by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The state government also contributed a further RM200,000 during the gala, bringing the total funds raised at the event to RM3.5 million. This amount includes donations from various corporate donors to support the sustainability and expansion of the TKTN safehouse and outreach model.
Abang Johari further reaffirmed the state's support for high-impact initiatives, such as the Differentiated HIV Services for Key Populations (DHSKP), a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and its partners.
'By reaching out to key populations with tailored care and outreach, the programme reflects the realities of our state — where geography, diversity, and vulnerability require localised and responsive solutions,' he added.
He commended MAF Sarawak for its collaborative approach with the government and private sector partners, including Sunway Group and Yayasan Petronas, in expanding DHSKP services.
Abang Johari also highlighted youth as a key focus in the state's HIV response, stressing the need to equip them with knowledge, tools, and safe spaces to make informed decisions, particularly in reducing the risk of sexual transmission and safeguarding their wellbeing.
He went on to call for greater collective responsibility in addressing the stigma surrounding HIV.
'For many, it is not the virus itself, but the isolation, shame, and discrimination that cause the deepest pain. This is a burden no one should bear — and it is one we all have a duty to lift,' he said.
Abang Johari expressed appreciation to MAF Borneo patron Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Puan Sri Jamilah Anu for continuing the legacy of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem (affectionately known as Tok Nan), who helped to establish the first TKTN facility here nine years ago.
Among present were Ministry of Health deputy-director general (Public Health) Dr Ismuni Bohari, MAF trustee Assoc Prof Dr Raja Iskandar Shah Raja Azwa as well as MAF and Malaysian AIDS Council executive director Jasmin Jalil. Abang Johari HIV support centre lead Teratak Kasih Tok Nan