Negri next to test couples for HIV

Star: JELEBU: Negri Sembilan is set to join other states in making HIV-testing compulsory for Muslim couples before marriage.
State Deputy Health, Science, Technology and Innovation Committee chairman Datuk Roslan Mohd Yusof said that a proposal would be submitted to the four undang and Yang di-Pertuan Besar next month.
If approved, he said that the compulsory testing would begin next year.
“We want to reduce the HIV/AIDS infection rate,” he said yesterday after opening the state-level World AIDS Day celebration on behalf of chairman Datuk Yu Chok Tow.
He said those with HIV-positive partners would be advised on the treatment available as well as given counselling.
“Some are still willing to get married because of love,” he said.
Selangor, Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perak, Perlis, Kedah and Pahang have made HIV-testing compulsory for Muslim couples intending to get married.
Jakim director-general Datuk Mustapa Abdul Rahman had said in July that Muslim couples in all states would have to be tested for HIV before they could get married.
Health Department deputy director Dr Omar Mihat, in his speech on behalf of director Datuk Dr Rosnah Ismail, said response to voluntary HIV testing had not been good.
“Maybe, they are afraid. The numbers are low even though the tests are free and confidential,” he said.
Malaysian AIDS Council executive director Nik Mohd Fahmee Nik Hussin said the poor response was because Malaysians did not think that they were at risk. ”That's why we need more targeted programmes to create awareness.”