Kuala lumpur: A total of 222 HIV cases were identified among students of higher learning institutions (IPT) last year, with some cases involving individuals as young as 18 and 19, according to Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni. He reported that between 2020 and 2024, 1,091 HIV infections were identified among IPT students.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lukanisman highlighted that these figures suggest that risky behaviors have been occurring earlier, prompting the implementation of harm reduction strategies. One such measure is the use of PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), which serves as a preventive tool against HIV. PrEP has been introduced in several facilities, and its implementation has demonstrated success, as mentioned during a press conference following the inauguration of the 2025 Media Roundtable Conference on Harm Reduction.

Lukanisman noted challenges faced by underage teenagers in accessing HIV self-testing and follow-up treatment, as current legal provisions require parental consent for screening. This lack of specific legislation poses a significant barrier for young individuals who wish to get tested and receive treatment.

Dr Fazidah Yuswan, Head of the HIV/STI/HeP Sector C of the Health Ministry’s Disease Control Division, stated that as of 2024, 36 percent, or 29,941 out of 83,937 individuals living with HIV, remain undetected. Efforts to enhance community-based screening are being intensified to identify more individuals living with HIV. For those reluctant to seek testing at health facilities, self-test kits are available through non-governmental organizations and the Malaysian AIDS Council.