HEALTH Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad announced plans for the expansion of HIV-prevention services in Malaysia in a significant stride towards combating HIV infections.
Ten additional public clinics are set to start dispensing Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) drugs by the end of this year. This decision comes as the medicine has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the transmission of HIV.
The initiative builds upon the success of the pilot programme initiated last year, offering free PrEP to individuals at high risk of contracting HIV.
Moreover, Dr Dzulkefly stated that 3,451 individuals have already received the harm-reduction treatment as of January.
“According to the early analysis of the pilot project, there has been a reduction in the rate of syphilis infection, from 11% to 6.5% after six months of consuming PrEP and to 1.3% after a 12-month regime.
“The percentage of the (PrEP) clients who started using condoms have also increased to 38.6% and 44% within six and 12 months, respectively,” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.
Responding to inquiries from Kuala Langat MP Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi regarding the status of the pilot project, particularly in light of religious considerations, Dr Dzulkefly reassured that the Health Ministry (MOH) is proactively engaging with religious authorities.
He noted the evidence-based approach taken by the ministry, citing the decision of the Perlis fatwa committee last July, which deemed PrEP permissible due to its significant benefits outweighing risks.
Despite controversies surrounding LGBT practices, Dr Dzulkefly reiterated that the ministry’s primary focus remains on safeguarding lives. He pointed out the responsibility undertaken by the ministry in implementing evidence-based interventions to address public health concerns.
“While we don’t recognise LGBT practices, the ministry’s priority is to protect the lives (of the people) and the Perlis fatwa committee has made that decision (fittingly). We take this approach with responsibility and are evidence-based,” he added.
Presently, free PrEP prescriptions are available at 21 public clinics nationwide, with plans for further expansion to ensure broader access to HIV-prevention services. The cost of drugs under the pilot programme is sponsored by the Malaysian Aids Council. – March 20, 2024
Main photo credit: Bernama
