Two Would-be Grooms Test Positive For HIV

SHAH ALAM, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Two would-be grooms tested positive for HIV -- the virus that causes AIDS -- in compulsory screening introduced last month by the Selangor government for Muslim couples planning to marry in the state.
The two men were drug addicts, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo Sunday.
He said the families of their respective intended partners had been informed of the test results.
"At the moment, it is not known whether they wish to proceed with the marriage plans. They are still discussing the matter," he told reporters after taking part in the Selangor Anti-Drug Run here.
He said the requirement for couples to undergo HIV screening before they could be married would be continued despite some quarters being unhappy with it.
Dr Mohamad Khir, who is also Malaysian Youth Council president, said he was concerned by the spread of drug addiction to very young victims.
This was shown by the 1,344 addicts detected in Selangor between January and June this year among whom was one in the 13-15 age group and six in the 16-18 age group.
He said the state government was setting up a special centre in Hulu Selangor to treat addicts by emphasising religious aspects and training them to fend for themselves.
"The inmates will only leave the centre when they are ready to face society," he added.