Introduction
The AIDS pandemic is a major social problem in Malaysia. The largest government statistics reported over 76,000 cases of HIV infected persons in the country. This represented a substantial increase of HIV infected cases since the first case was detected in 1986.
The spread of HIV infection has caused concern and fear amongst various sectors of the population. Many people are ignorant and / or misinformed about the causes of AIDS, the sources and methods of infection and the way in which the HIV virus is transmitted. Most people also lack the knowledge, skills and techniques needed to deal with HIV positive person, people with AIDS (PWAs) and people living with HIV/AIDS. (PLWHAs).
The lack of the knowledge and skills in prevention and management skills of HIV/AIDS has contributed to the spiraling problems of fear, labeling, prejudice and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS.
There is an urgent need to promote AIDS education and AIDS prevention techniques to the people. This will reduce the misinformation, fear and ignorance about AIDS. It will also enable people to actively prevent the spread of HIV infection through effective measures including the practice of safer sex and a healthy life style.
The Johor AIDS Action and Research Society (JAARS) has been formed to encourage Community involvement and Participation in the fight against AIDS pandemic in Malaysia.
Through education and community action activities, this group will contribute to the nation’s efforts in dealing with AIDS problem.
