Foreword
Message by Premier Sarawak
The Government of Sarawak remains deeply committed to building a healthier and more inclusive society, where every individual has access to care, dignity, and opportunity. Our commitment aligns closely with the mission of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) and its partners, who continue to lead impactful efforts to strengthen the HIV and AIDS response across the region.
This shared commitment is exemplified by initiatives like Teratak Kasih Tok Nan, which offers support and sanctuary to people living with HIV. More than a centre for care, it reflects the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem’s vision of fairness and compassion—a legacy that continues to shape Sarawak’s approach to community health.
To expand access to this kind of care, the Sarawak State Government has allocated RM2.4 million to support HIV treatment and prevention programmes across the state. This investment underscores our belief that healthcare must reach every corner of Sarawak and be available to all, regardless of background or circumstance.
Achieving this requires close collaboration across all sectors. The Malaysian AIDS Foundation has shown how meaningful partnerships between government, civil society, and the private sector can create real and measurable outcomes. With the support of organisations such as Sunway Group, CIMB Foundation, Yayasan PETRONAS, and Yayasan Sime Darby, these partnerships continue to strengthen our collective response.
As we gather for the Malaysian Aids Foundation Kuching Gala 2025, we are reminded that this work must continue. The Gala is not only a celebration of the generosity that fuels our efforts but also a call to sustain our momentum and deepen our shared commitment to end AIDS in Sarawak and beyond.
Sarawak will remain focused on driving progress through inclusion, shared responsibility, and strategic investment. Together, we can build a future where no one is left behind, where stigma no longer prevents access to care, and where health and dignity are rights enjoyed by all.
Message by Malaysian AIDS Foundation Borneo
It is a privilege to share this message for the Malaysian AIDS Foundation Kuching Gala 2025, a meaningful gathering that brings together individuals, communities, and institutions united by a shared purpose: to support those affected by HIV and to work towards an AIDS-free future for Sarawak and Malaysia. This event is not only a celebration of generosity, but also a powerful expression of our collective responsibility to ensure no one is left behind in the HIV response.
One initiative especially close to my heart is Teratak Kasih Tok Nan, founded in 2017 in memory of my late husband, Allahyarham Pehin Sri Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr. Adenan Satem. Guided by his belief in fairness, compassion, and dignity for all, the centre has become a sanctuary of hope and healing for people living with HIV. From its modest beginnings as a halfway house, it now provides comprehensive support including medical referrals, psychosocial care, life skills training, and safe temporary shelter, especially for those who have travelled long distances to access treatment.
Building on this foundation, the centre expanded in 2023 with the opening of a second facility in Miri. This marked an important step in bringing culturally sensitive and essential care to communities in Northern Sarawak who have long faced significant barriers to access. With continued collaboration and support, we hope to cover even more ground, reaching underserved regions and furthering our shared goal in eliminating AIDS in Sarawak.
Alongside these efforts, the Sarawak Health Access Program (SHAPE) continues to strengthen HIV outreach, screening, and treatment across the state. By focusing on key populations and remote communities, SHAPE ensures that life-saving services are delivered with respect, sensitivity, and commitment. Together, programmes like SHAPE and Teratak Kasih Tok Nan are helping to create a more inclusive and equitable public health response.
The road to ending AIDS by 2023 is not only shaped by medical innovation, but also by our ability to foster trust, dismantle stigma, and uphold the dignity of people living with HIV. Real change happens when people feel seen, supported, and valued. That is the vision we work towards, one community at a time.
Tonight’s Gala reflects the strength of this shared commitment. It honours the partnerships, leadership, and compassion that have brought us this far and calls on us to continue this important journey together.
To all who have contributed to this cause, whether through advocacy, expertise, generosity, or care, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. May this evening renew our collective resolve and inspire even greater progress in our pursuit of an AIDS-free world.
Message by Malaysian AIDS Foundation
The Malaysian AIDS Foundation Kuching Gala is a powerful testament to unity, bringing together diverse voices, sectors, and communities committed to ending the HIV epidemic in Sarawak and Malaysia by 2030. This shared commitment is vital, especially given the unique challenges presented by Sarawak’s vast and diverse landscape.
With communities spread across remote and often hard-to-reach areas, Sarawak reminds us that addressing HIV is not solely a medical challenge but also a deeply social one. Barriers such as geographic isolation, stigma, and limited resources continue to hinder access to prevention and treatment services. Yet, these challenges have sparked innovative and compassionate responses that inspire hope and progress.
Teratak Kasih Tok Nan serves as a powerful example of compassion and care. More than just a shelter, it provides comprehensive support including medical care, counselling, and social services where lives are restored, strength renewed, and dignity upheld amid adversity. Its ongoing expansion into Northern Sarawak marks an important milestone in bringing essential, culturally sensitive care closer to communities that have historically faced limited access.
This progress would not be possible without the strong backing of the Sarawak state government. Their ongoing commitment to integrating HIV programmes into broader health and social development policies provides a solid foundation for sustainable and inclusive care. This partnership strengthens our ability to deliver tailored services and extend outreach, ensuring that no community is left behind.
Initiatives like the Tripartite HIV Intervention Programme demonstrate how collaboration between government, civil society, and healthcare providers is transforming HIV care. By meeting people where they are and involving them as partners in their health journey, these programmes ensure that services are both accessible and respectful.
At the core of these efforts lies a simple but profound truth: HIV impacts not only individual health but also families and futures. The breakthrough of Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U=U) offers genuine hope, yet its promise can only be fulfilled if everyone has access to consistent, effective treatment. This truth challenges us all to go beyond medicine and dismantle stigma, building systems that leave no one behind.
From my experience in HIV medicine and public health, I understand that true and lasting progress demands more than clinical interventions alone. It calls for sustained collaboration, resolute leadership, and above all, sincere empathy. The generosity and partnerships we acknowledge tonight are indispensable to driving this important work forward.
While challenges remain, with the continued support of the Sarawak state government and all stakeholders, achieving an AIDS-free Sarawak and Malaysia is within our reach. Together, we share the responsibility and the hope to turn this vision into reality for every person affected by HIV.
Thank you for your commitment, your generosity, and your belief in this vital cause.
MAF In Sarawak
MAF has been supporting Sarawak’s HIV Treatment, Prevention, Care, and Education programme for over a decade, with a focus on assisting individuals living below the poverty line. Currently, our efforts benefit more than 2,000 direct beneficiaries.
TERATAK KASIH TOK NAN
In Kuching, Sarawak, our One-Stop Centre for PLHIV – otherwise known as Teratak Kasih Tok Nan, is providing a wide range of services – from treatment referral to transportation assistance and from halfway home to empowerment programme for single mothers living with HIV.
Currently, our efforts are focused on the Kuching and Samarahan Division due to the vast geographical area of Sarawak. However, we recognize the urgent need to expand our services to the northern region, including Miri and Limbang in 2023, where the number of HIV cases is already a significant concern.
SARAWAK HEALTH ACCESS PROGRAMME
As an extension of our comprehensive HIV services, the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) is proud to administer the Travel Subsidy Programme, a vital initiative designed to alleviate the financial burden of transportation for individuals requiring consistent access to healthcare services.
Known as the Sarawak Health Access Programme (SHAPE), this initiative is a lifeline for over 250 hardcore poor individuals annually across the Kuching, Samarahan, and Miri divisions. SHAPE addresses a critical gap for patients residing in remote or underserved areas by subsidizing transportation costs, thus enabling consistent access to medical appointments, follow-up treatments, and essential care.
MAF has been supporting Sarawak’s HIV Treatment, Prevention, Care, and Education programme for over a decade, with a focus on assisting individuals living below the poverty line. Currently, our efforts benefit more than 2,000 direct beneficiaries.
Responsibility to Act
Teratak Kasih Tok Nan stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu, inspired by her deep personal connection to the challenges faced by the underserved HIV community in Sarawak. This center is a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, Allahyarham Pehin Sri Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Haji Adenan bin Haji Satem, a compassionate leader who held a special place in the hearts of the people of Sarawak.
HIV & AIDS IN SARAWAK
As many as 2,720 people has tested positive for HIV in Sarawak since 2015.
This is a breakdown showing the percentage distribution of the cumulative cases of HIV infection in Sarawak. Within the same period, 1,093 cases, or nearly 40 % of People Living with HIV were diagnosed with AIDS in Sarawak.
MAF plans to expand its services to Bintulu and Sibu, which have the third and fourth-highest HIV cases in Sarawak, after Kuching and Miri. We will launch the Tripartite HIV Intervention Programme (THIP) in Bintulu, offering HIV prevention, testing, and treatment through the Differentiated HIV Services for Key Populations (DHSKP) Programme.
In addition, we will expand the SHAPE programme to provide medical travel subsidies for chronic disease patients seeking treatment at hospitals or government healthcare facilities in the region.
Treatment & Prevention
Driving AIDS response efforts
Importance of HIV Treatment and Prevention
HIV treatment and prevention are essential to improving public health, reducing transmission, and achieving global HIV/AIDS targets.
Early access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) enhances the quality of life for people living with HIV (PLHIV), prevents progression to AIDS, and reduces opportunistic infections. Suppressing viral loads through treatment and implementing prevention strategies like PrEP and condom use effectively break the chain of transmission.
These efforts also protect high-risk populations, reduce AIDS-related deaths, and alleviate healthcare costs. Furthermore, comprehensive programs foster community resilience by addressing stigma and promoting inclusivity. Investing in these initiatives is critical to ending the HIV epidemic and supporting sustainable development goals.
Meeting The Goals
Challenges Of
Accessing
ARV In Sarawak
LACK OF HEALTHCARE FACILITIES
In places like Sabah and Sarawak, healthcare facilities with HIV treatment are not immediately accessible or are remotely located. This can make it difficult for people to access ARV, especially those who live in rural or remote areas.
OUR SOLUTION
Our Sabah & Sarawak Health Access Programme (SHAPE) provides hospital travel subsidies for HIV patients from the rural interiors as well as the urban poor in both States. The subsidies contribute positively towards compliance and treatment retention for our clients.
FINANCIAL CONSTRAINT
Certain types of ARV can be expensive and not everyone living with HIV can afford to pay for it. Our MOH has implemented ARV programmes, but in some cases, coverage is limited to first-line and in some cases, not everyone is eligible to receive it.
OUR SOLUTION
The Medicine Assistance Scheme by MAF provides subsidy for 2nd-line ARV to underprivileged Malaysians. The Scheme currently supports more than 500 People Living with HIV.
STIGMA AND DISCRIMINATION
HIV/AIDS stigma is still commonplace which makes it difficult for people to seek treatment. Discrimination can also make it difficult for people to access healthcare services, including ARV.
OUR SOLUTION
We continue to build constructive engagement with healthcare workers through training and sensitisation programme. In addition, MAF has also embarked on specialised HIV training with general practitioners from private practices to open up alternative points of care for PLHIV outside the government primary care service providers.
TESTIMONIAL: THE TREE OF LIFE
A Story Of Strength, Resilience & Hope
Kuching gala 2025
The 2025 Malaysian AIDS Foundation Kuching Gala is a momentous fundraising event. We warmly welcome all kind – hearted individuals who have come together to support this noble cause dedicated to raising funds for those affected by AIDS. Its core mission is to amass funds for the expansion of the Differentiated HIV Services for Key Populations (DHSKP). Additionally, it aims to extend the Sarawak Health Access Programme to Bintulu and Sibu in Sarawak. This event is not only a fundraiser but also a platform to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and the importance of accessible healthcare services.
This is an elegant black – tie affair, promising an evening of sophistication and philanthropy. The venue for this gala is the Hilton Kuching Hotel, renowned as one of the most exclusive and distinguished locations in town. It provides the perfect backdrop for an event that brings together individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS and improving healthcare access in Sarawak.
As the evening unfolds, we hope you will enjoy every moment of this meaningful gathering. May this event be filled with joy, connection, and a shared sense of accomplishment in contributing to a better future for those in need. Have a delightful evening!
GUEST OF HONOR
SARAWAK PREMIER
YAB Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Haji Openg
DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH
YB Dato’ Lukanisman bin Awang Sauni
GALA HOSTS
MAF BORNEO PATRON
YBhg Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Hajah Jamilah Haji Anu
MAF CHAIRMAN
YBhg Professor Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman
YAB Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Haji Openg
Premier of Sarawak
With support from the Sarawak State Government and collaboration with the Sarawak State Health Department, the Ministry of Health Malaysia, the Sarawak Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, and other agencies, the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) has established Sarawak’s first one-stop support center for People Living with HIV (PLHIV).
This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to tackling HIV/AIDS in Sarawak and ensuring that PLHIV receive the care and support they need to lead healthier lives.
The Venue
Hilton Kuching is widely recognised as the beacon of Sarawak hospitality. Since opening its doors in 1988, the hotel has built a solid reputation for its dedication to quality and excellence in services and remains as the place to be seen that lies at the heart of social scene in Sarawak.
Hilton Kuching is also throwing its support behind the Malaysian AIDS Foundation’s most important charitable project in the state, the Teratak Kasih Tok Nan, the first Sarawak One-Stop Centre for People Living with HIV
FINE DINING EXPERIENCE
The evening will start with a pre-dinner cocktail reception, featuring a selection of delicious canapés and free-flowing drinks to excite the taste buds and set the tone for the meal ahead.
The main event will be a carefully crafted four-course dinner, prepared by the Executive Chef of Hilton Kuching Hotel. This exceptional menu will highlight the finest ingredients, skillfully combined to offer a memorable culinary experience for all guests.
Entertainment
Bob Yusof & Ameng Spring
Prepare to be spellbound at our much – anticipated Gala event, where the spotlight will shine brightly on the extraordinary talent of the renowned ballad artist, Bob Yusof, from Limbang. A stalwart in the music industry, Bob will take center stage, delivering a performance that promises to be etched in your memories forever.
Bob Yusof, a founding member of the MAF’s Red Ribbon Celebrity Supporters, has dedicated over a decade to volunteering with the organization. His unwavering commitment has been crucial in raising awareness about HIV and AIDS, reaching out far and wide to make a significant impact in the fight against the disease.
Joining Bob on this musical journey is Ameng Spring, a highly respected veteran in the Malaysian music scene. With decades of experience, Ameng has charmed audiences with his rich, soulful vocals and stage charisma.
Together, Bob Yusof and Ameng Spring will craft a mesmerizing musical experience. Their dynamic performance, featuring a thrilling blend of timeless classics and the latest chart – toppers, ensures an enchanting evening for audiences of all ages.
Special Thanks
To all sponsors and partners of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation Kuching Gala 2025.
Sponsors Advertisement
Contact Us
If the option to become a partner for the Malaysian AIDS Foundation Kuching Gala 2025 is untenable at this moment, MAF also accepts donation of any amount from your esteemed organisation.
Account Information
Your donation can be made by crossed cheque, made payable to Malaysian AIDS Foundation.
You may also directly transfer your donation to our account:
Bank : Maybank Berhad
Bank account name : Malaysian AIDS Foundation
Account number : 5141-0542-1257
Branch : Kompleks Dayabumi Kuala Lumpur
SWIFT Code : MBB-MBBEMYKL
Contact
For further information about the Malaysian AIDS Foundation Red Ribbon Gala 2023, kindly contact:
Jasmin Jalil
Executive Director
T 03-4047 4311 | 012-3200 686
E jasmin@maf.org.my
Mohd Razif Bin Zainuddin
Head of Operations
T 03-4047 4288 | 011 39768083
E razif@maf.org.my
