KUCHING: Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii paid a visit to the Sarawak AIDS Concern Society (SACS) located along Jalan Rock here on Friday (May 13).
He shared that the non-profit organisation was formed in 1998 with the aim to educate the public about facts and myths regarding HIV/AIDS.
Besides that, the organisation also aimed to reduce the stigma attached to it and to promote effective preventative measures in dealing with HIV/AIDS through non-judgmental, non-discriminatory and holistic approaches.
“We had the opportunity to listen to Dr Yuwana Podin, who shared about plans and activities of the organisation. They have been working a lot with high-risk groups, including the vulnerable communities here in Kuching and Samarahan.”
Dr Yii admitted that one of the things that he found concerning was the increase of prevalence among young people, including students, as many were getting more sexually active at a young age.
He pointed out that sex education in the country remained severely insufficient with many young people being unaware of the importance of safe sex and even consequences of their decision.
“That is why we had a short discussion on how we can design specific programmes targeted at young people to better equip and protect them.
“We must have such conversation without stigma and prejudice as we work together to address this issue.”
Dr Yii disclosed that his office had allocated some allocations for the organisation and would be supportive of any future programmes to benefit the public, especially young people.
