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UMS Amplifies Awareness on HIV and AIDS through Educational Program

 

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) continues its commitment to raising awareness about HIV and AIDS by hosting the World AIDS Day 2024 Celebration at UMS. Organized by the Department of Family Medicine, UMS Hospital (HUMS), the event carried the theme “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”

UMS Vice-Chancellor, Professor Datuk Dr. Kasim Hj. Mansor, emphasized that this year’s theme highlights individuals' rights to access quality healthcare and accurate information regarding HIV and AIDS prevention.

“The theme serves as a reminder that every person has the right to live without discrimination, with the necessary support to lead a healthy and stigma-free life.

“This celebration strengthens our shared commitment to combating HIV/AIDS and ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has equal opportunities to safeguard their health.

“According to the 2023 Malaysian Ministry of Health report, university students constitute a significant portion of the demographic at risk of contracting HIV.

“Hence, today’s program focusing on education and awareness of HIV prevention is a crucial annual initiative to ensure the UMS community is well-informed. This supports government efforts to reduce HIV transmission risks within the community,” he stated during the program's officiation.

His speech was delivered by the Director of HUMS, Associate Professor Dr. Malehah Datuk Mohd Noh, during the event held at UMS Postgraduate Auditorium.

Professor Kasim also stressed that such programs not only disseminate information on HIV prevention but also foster a more positive and responsible attitude among the UMS community toward personal and communal health.

“I urge the public to continuously support initiatives like this to ensure awareness programs have a positive impact, especially in the context of community health,” he added.

The World AIDS Day 2024 Celebration at UMS garnered support from various organizations, including the UMS Student Representative Council (MPP), Sabah AIDS Awareness Group Association (SAGA), Sabah AIDS Support Services (KASIH), Speciality Programme for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (SPADA), the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), and the Blood Bank of Sabah Women and Children Hospital.

The event also saw the attendance of Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Nazri Mohd Daud, Head of the Department of Family Medicine, HUMS.