KUALA LUMPUR - A group of undergraduates posed as HIV/AIDS
victims and hugged strangers to help destigmatise the disease.
Some 200 students from Universiti
Malaya's Medical Society wanted to convey the message that HIV cannot be spread
through touch at a ceremony to mark World AIDS Day in Berjaya Times Square
yesterday.
"We want to educate the
public about the facts relating to HIV/AIDS and that it cannot be spread
through a handshake or hug," said a student.
Youths interviewed at the event
expressed concern with the statistics which indicated that those aged between
19 and 39 years represent close to three quarters of all HIV/AIDS cases in
Malaysia.
"Youths need to know the
importance of safe sex and practising abstinence before marriage," said
Sarah Tai, 20, a first-year medical student.
Business administration student
Mohd Rahimi Radzi, 23, said he knew of several youths who were HIV positive.
"They need support to deal
with the disease and return to their normal lives," he said.
Camelia Sulaiman, 25, who
volunteers with an NGO called Positive Warrior, said the stigma against those
with the disease must end.
"They are just like any
other person who suffers from an illness and should not be treated
differently," she said.
The society also joined hands
with the Malaysian AIDS Council to launch the Red Ribbon Youth Club, which will
spread awareness about the disease on campuses.
The club's ambassador is Aaron
Aziz, who is a popular local actor.
"If you think that HIV does
not concern you, think again.
"All young people must know
how to protect themselves from HIV and it starts by being responsible for your
health," said Aaron.
The Star/Asia News Network
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