MALAYSIAN AIDS FOUNDATION

Red Ribbon Gala 2023

1 DECEMBER 2023 | SUNWAY RESORT HOTEL, SUNWAY CITY KUALA LUMPUR

Welcome to Red Ribbon Gala 2023 Website

Red Ribbon Gala Returns

The Malaysian AIDS Foundation is delighted to announce the highly-anticipated return of our flagship fundraiser, the Red Ribbon Gala, scheduled to take place on the 1st of December 2023 at Sunway Resort in Sunway City, Kuala Lumpur.

As one of the most successful and celebrated charitable events in Malaysia, the Red Ribbon Gala has raised over RM 8 million in the past five years, directly contributing to critical HIV treatment programmes for underserved People Living with HIV.

Attracting Malaysia’s top corporates, sponsors and donors, the 2023 edition of the Red Ribbon Gala is also being held to coincide with the 30th Anniversary of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (1993 – 2023).

The 2023 MAF Red Ribbon Gala will feature a performance from a local artiste, yet to be confirmed, and will attract the Malaysian press, all vying to witness first-hand this spectacular event.

Friday

December 2023

SUNWAY RESORT HOTEL,
SUNWAY CITY KUALA LUMPUR

Prime Minister's Message

By Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Bin Ibrahim

Addressing the serious public health concern of HIV and AIDS, I emphasise the Malaysian Government’s substantial financial commitment, covering over 80% of national response costs annually. The Government’s willingness to fund Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs underscores its dedication to providing a chance for those living with HIV to lead normal lives. The transformative impact of ARV in reducing virus load and preventing transmission is highlighted.

I stress the importance of workplace inclusivity for People Living with HIV, urging employers to reassess policies and endorsing the Malaysian AIDS Foundation’s efforts for legislative reform. The call for collective attention to ending AIDS by 2030 is underscored, and the Malaysian AIDS Foundation’s upcoming Sustainability Impact Report is acknowledged. I commend their initiative and hope such impact assessments become standard practice for community-focused NGOs. In conclusion, I express gratitude for this invitation and conclude my remarks with the guidance of Allah.

Patron's Message

By Patron of Malaysian AIDS Foundation, YBhg Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir.

I am honoured to welcome you to the 14th Red Ribbon Gala, coinciding with the 30th Anniversary of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation. This event, born in response to the AIDS crisis in 1996, has significantly contributed to mitigating its effects through the generosity of Malaysians. Reflecting on four decades of progress, eradicating AIDS is now an achievable reality, with a focus on lifelong medication as a key tool. However, challenges persist, necessitating increased awareness, especially among the youth, and active combat against stigma and discrimination.

A heartfelt gratitude is extended to supporters, particularly Sunway and Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Sir Jeffrey Cheah, and the dedicated MAF team led by Professor Dato Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman. The collective effort of businesses and partners accelerates the mission to end AIDS, fostering compassion, care, and respect for individual rights in Malaysia. In the face of global challenges, including the HIV/AIDS epidemic, tonight serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting each other.

Chairman's Message

By Chairman of Malaysian AIDS Foundation, YBhg Professor Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman.

I extend my deepest appreciation to Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Sir Jeffrey Cheah and the Sunway Group for their unwavering support to the Malaysian AIDS Foundation. Over four decades, Malaysia has faced the AIDS epidemic, making commendable progress, notably in eliminating mother-to-child transmission and reducing HIV infections through initiatives like the Harm Reduction Programme. The transformative impact of antiretroviral medication allows individuals with HIV to lead fulfilling lives, emphasising the ongoing need for youth awareness.

Connecting human rights and HIV, I advocate for a compassionate approach to key populations, urging the decriminalisation of drug use and community-based treatment. Collaborative efforts across sectors are crucial in advancing the National Strategic Plan to end AIDS. I express gratitude to partners, donors, and the success of the Red Ribbon Gala, which raised RM1.8 million.

In the words of Nkosi Johnson, “You can love people with AIDS. You can touch them. You can be their friend. You can look after them. We are all the same.”

Message by Sunway

By Alex Castaldi, Senior General Manager of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Hotels

Dear Esteemed Guests,

It is with immense pleasure and a profound sense of responsibility that I extend my warmest welcome to all of you attending the Red Ribbon Gala, a beacon of hope in our collective effort to combat AIDS.

In my role as the Senior General Manager of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Hotels, I take great pride in standing alongside the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) as they spearhead the fight against this critical issue. As many of you may be aware, we have recently completed our once-in-a-generation transformation, a journey that reflects the transformative impact we aspire to bring to the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS through our involvement in the Red Ribbon Gala.

In the spirit of renewal and a commitment to making a meaningful difference, Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Hotels is honoured to be the Red Ribbon Gala sponsor. It is our privilege to collaborate with MAF in this noble cause, a joint commitment to eradicate AIDS and extend support to those who need it the most. Together, as responsible corporate citizens, successful businesses, and compassionate individuals, we stand united in the race against time to end AIDS.

May this evening be a testament to the power of collective action and the transformative potential that lies within each of us to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

With gratitude,

Alex Castaldi
Senior General Manager
Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Hotels

Message by Perkeso

By Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohammed Azman Bin Dato’ Aziz Mohammed, CEO of PERKESO (TBC)

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A High-powered Networking Event
All In The Name Of A Good Cause

With a philanthropic focus at its core, the Red Ribbon Gala has established itself as a high-powered networking platform, bringing together corporate citizens, entrepreneurs and industry leaders from diverse sectors and fields, as well as high net-worth individuals in Malaysia for an evening of glamour and philanthropy.

PREMIUM EXPERIENCE GUARANTEED

The Red Ribbon Gala promises a premium experience, from a specially curated fine dining menu to world-class entertainment and impeccable venue decor. Our previous Galas have left a lasting impression on guests and donors alike.

Well–known as the event that attracts the Who’s Who in Malaysian elite society, the Red Ribbon Gala is unforgettable due to its first–class entertainment, exclusive fashion, and unparalleled dining experience.

WORLD-CLASS FEATURES

The inaugural Red Ribbon Gala in 1996 featured the first-ever Donna Karan trunk fashion show in Southeast Asia.

This was followed by the unveiling of the Chanel Fall/Winter Collection in 2000, a performance by the world-renowned Vienna Choir Boys in 2002, a special runway show by Malaysian-born international designer Bernard Chandran in 2006, the Elie Saab Autumn/Winter 2008-2009 Haute Couture Collection in 2008, and live performance by British superstar Leona Lewis in 2012.

Performance Highlights

The showtime segment for this edition will feature performances by special talented artistes and will be accompanied by our Red Ribbon Celebrity Supporters.

MAF is thrilled to present to you an evening that transcends boundaries and ignites the senses – the Gala Performance Highlights. The Red Ribbon Gala promises a curated selection of captivating performances that span the spectrum of human emotion and imagination.

Our commitment to bringing you the finest artistic experiences that can be brought to you together with a memorable performance that will leave you breathless and inspired. So, without further ado, we invite you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Gala performance. We celebrate the transformative power of the arts and the indelible mark they leave on the tapestry of our lives. Enjoy the show!

Official Venue

Sunway Resort Hotel, Sunway City Kuala Lumpur

The Red Ribbon Gala will be hosted by the legendary Sunway Resort Hotel, Sunway City Kuala Lumpur.

Hot on the heels of a RM240 million renovation, the urban resort is the crown jewel of the Sunway City integrated development.

The resort has undergone a significant transformation that sets the highest standard of hospitality with an unsurpassed commitment to sustainability – from the adoption of new green technology and energy-saving features in its daily operation to the introduction of an urban farm on the resort’s rooftop under the Sunway FutureX initiative that supplies healthy, farm-fresh produce to the resort’s F&B outlets.

A Mission To End AIDS

Over 40 years of advances in HIV science, evidence shows that antiretroviral treatment is the most effective tool in not only treating but also preventing the spread of the virus.

Some facts to ponder

Malaysians are living with HIV

> 5000

Malaysians have died to AIDS-related illnesses

> 5000

Every day, 8 Malaysians are infected by HIV – an average of 1 new infection every 3 hours

0 /day

45 % of People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in Malaysia don’t have access to life-saving treatment

0 %

How antiretroviral treatment acts on HIV

Antiretroviral therapy (ARV)

is a treatment for HIV that uses drugs to reduce the amount of virus in the body.

ARV medicines

work by blocking different stages of the virus life cycle, which helps to slow or stop the progression of HIV infection to AIDS. This treatment also significantly reduces the risk of transmitting HIV to others.

The roadmap to Ending AIDS by 2030

Effective rollout of antiretroviral treatment will take us to our goal of ending AIDS by 2030

Challenges Of
Accessing ARV In Malaysia

Over 40 years of advances in HIV science, evidence shows that antiretroviral treatment is the most effective tool in not only treating, but also preventing the spread of the virus.

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.

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.

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.

Special Thanks

To all sponsors and partners of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation Red Ribbon Gala 2023.

People Behind The Scene

GALA OPERATION
SECRETARIAT MAF & MAC

Mohd Razif Zainuddin
Zarinah Saaid
Ravi Krishnan
Goh Yuen Lu
Siti Mariam Hamid
Nik Ahmad Aizudeen
‘Abdullah Salam
Nuur Fatin Mizan
Rosnah Mohd Noor
Mohd Hasrul Anuar
Azahemy Abdullah
Kenny Yap
Aiman Samsudin
Noor Zahra Zamalik
Nurul Hafizah Suhana Zakari
Jasalinda Mad Saad
Lee Sook Foong
Syahirah Jhan Abdul Halil Khan