Yesterday, the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) hosted the Poise & Power High Tea Celebration at Hilton Kuala Lumpur, recognizing the challenges and triumphs of over 15,000 women living with HIV. Under the theme “Count Her In: Accelerating Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment,” the event celebrated women who epitomize grace, strength, and resilience, echoing the spirit of International Women’s Day.
Globally, over 20 million women and girls are living with HIV, including 15,000 in Malaysia. To end AIDS by 2030, it is crucial to address the diverse roles of women and girls living with HIV, placing them at the forefront of our response. This involves ensuring they receive the support, resources, and advocacy needed to thrive, prioritizing their needs and challenges to help them overcome the impact of HIV.
MAF has consistently advocated for the rights of women living with HIV, striving to provide them with equal access to economic opportunities. Key initiatives like the MyLady Assistance Scheme and the PERKESO Return-to-Work Program are central to these efforts, promoting economic independence and fostering self-sufficiency among women living with HIV.
The MyLady Assistance Scheme offers microcredit business loans to support home-based and small enterprises, aiming to uplift the socio-economic status of women living with HIV. Similarly, the Return-to-Work Programme takes a proactive approach to assist insured individuals with injuries or diseases in returning to safe and productive work promptly.
The Poise & Power event featured a cheque presentation to MAF Chairman, YBhg. Professor Dato’ Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman, representing the Malaysian AIDS Foundation. The donation was made by the Ministry of Youth & Sports, represented by Deputy Secretary-General Puan Ramona Mohd Razali on behalf of YB Hannah Yeoh, followed by contributions from Pusat Khidmat Rakyat, represented by YB Vivian Wong Shir Yee, Member of Parliament for Sandakan and MAF Sabah Health Access Programme (SHAPE) Advisor, and other donors. These donations will support the beneficiaries of the MyLady Assistance Scheme.
From left: Ms. Tina Fazlita Fadzil, YB Vivian Yee Shir Wong, Member of Parliament, Sandakan and MAF SHAPE Programme Advisor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman, MAF Chairman, Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Puan Sri Hajah Jamilah Anu, MAF Borneo Patron, En Jasmin Jalil, Malaysian AIDS Foundation & Malaysian AIDS Council, Executive Director and Deputy Secretary-General, Ministry Youth & Sports, Puan Ramona Mohd Razali
In this regard, we would greatly appreciate it if our esteemed editors could help us produce news articles about the Poise & Power event, highlighting the significance of these initiatives and the ongoing efforts to empower women living with HIV.
and Professor Dato’ Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman, MAF Chairman,
FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT:
Noor Zahra Zamalik
Communications Department, Malaysian AIDS Foundation
media@maf.org.my | 010-2925162
