BINTULU: Efforts to strengthen the support network for the HIV and AIDS affected community in Sarawak continue to be bolstered with the official opening of Teratak Kasih Tok Nan (TKTN) Bintulu.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, said a continuous approach based on empathy, compassion and multi-stakeholder cooperation is crucial in addressing the issue of HIV and AIDS thoroughly and effectively.

According to him, the affected groups often face various challenges including stigma, discrimination and social isolation, in addition to the necessity of maintaining good health.

“This reality requires compassion, patience and continuous commitment from all parties. Community-based initiatives such as Teratak Kasih Tok Nan play an important role in helping this group,” he said.

He said this during the launching ceremony of the Teratak Kasih Tok Nan Bintulu on Tuesday.

Datuk Amar Dr Sim explained that the development of TKTN began in Kuching before being expanded to Miri and now to Bintulu, proving the effectiveness of the community approach in expanding access to support for the affected groups.

The Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government added that the services provided by the centre also complement existing treatment at government hospitals and clinics, thus creating a more comprehensive and integrated healthcare ecosystem.

“This combination of services can strengthen the effectiveness of treatment, increase the continuity of support and contribute to a more sustainable response in efforts to combat HIV and AIDS,” he added.

Meanwhile, he informed that the Sarawak Government has approved an allocation of RM2.25 million for a period of three years to support the continued operation of TKTN.

According to him, the support reflects the Sarawak Government’s commitment to strengthening strategic collaboration between the government, civil society organisations and the private sector in improving aspects of public health.

He expressed hope that the establishment of TKTN Bintulu could expand the support network for affected groups, improve their quality of life and strengthen HIV prevention efforts in the state.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Health Dato Hanifah Hajar Taib, Patron of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation Borneo Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu, health management staff, strategic partners from the corporate sector and representatives of the local community. -UKASnews