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The Star
20-07-2025
- Politics
- The Star
'Gay sex party' or HIV outreach programme?: Kelantan deputy MB urges thorough probe
KOTA BHARU: Kelantan deputy Mentri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan has called for a fair and thorough investigation into the recent police raid at a bungalow in Kemumin, Kota Bharu, which was alleged to have been the site of a 'gay sex party'. The raid, carried out by the Kelantan police, has sparked controversy after several NGOs and individuals denied that any illicit activities took place, claiming instead that the gathering was a health outreach event focused on HIV awareness and testing. "The Kelantan state government calls for the investigation to be conducted neatly and thoroughly so that no party falls victim to misunderstanding, slander or public punishment before the truth is determined," said Fadzli on Facebook on Sunday (July 20). In a joint statement, Suaram, the Women's Aid Organisation (WAO), Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) and Amnesty International Malaysia refuted claims of immoral conduct, stating that 'the participants attended to get information and undergo sexual health tests.' The Malaysian AIDS Council (MAC) also confirmed that a field engagement session was conducted on June 17 in Kota Bharu under the Different HIV Services for Key Population (DHSKP) programme, which is supported by the Health Ministry. They were referring to reports quoting Kelantan police saying more than 20 men were arrested in a bungalow in Kota Bahru, allegedly for attending a 'gay party'. However, Fadzli maintained the state government's firm stance against activities it deems immoral or in contradiction to Islamic principles. "Any form of disobedience that attempts to normalise will not be allowed a place to reside in this state," said Fadzli, adding that all stakeholders must play their role in safeguarding the sanctity and harmony of society. Fadzli stressed the importance of transparency, especially in clarifying whether the attendees were from outside Kelantan. 'If it is true as reported, that the participants of the programme came from outside Kelantan and do not involve the people of the state, then this information also needs to be explained publicly so that innocent Kelantan citizens do not become victims of accusation and slander,' he said. He also urged organisers of any programme, especially those that may stir public sensitivities, to seek prior approval from relevant authorities.
Borneo Post
20-07-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Sarawak govt contributes RM2.25 mln to expand HIV support services
(from left) Dr Raja Iskandar, Dr Ismuni, Abdul Karim, Jamilah and Jasmin pose for a group photo with the mock cheques for RM2.25 million and RM200,000 contributed by the Sarawak government during the event in Kuching. — Photo by Kentigern Minggu KUCHING (July 20): The Sarawak government has contributed RM2.25 million to support the staffing, operations and expansion of Teratak Kasih Tok Nan (TKTN), a community-based HIV support centre, over the next three years. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the centre is set to expand to Miri and Bintulu, extending its HIV support network. 'We take the issue of HIV and AIDS seriously. The increasing number of new cases is a concern we monitor closely. There is no room for complacency,' he said in his speech at the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) Kuching Gala 2025 at a hotel here last night. His speech was delivered by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The state government also contributed a further RM200,000 during the gala, bringing the total funds raised at the event to RM3.5 million. This amount includes donations from various corporate donors to support the sustainability and expansion of the TKTN safehouse and outreach model. Abang Johari further reaffirmed the state's support for high-impact initiatives, such as the Differentiated HIV Services for Key Populations (DHSKP), a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and its partners. 'By reaching out to key populations with tailored care and outreach, the programme reflects the realities of our state — where geography, diversity, and vulnerability require localised and responsive solutions,' he added. He commended MAF Sarawak for its collaborative approach with the government and private sector partners, including Sunway Group and Yayasan Petronas, in expanding DHSKP services. Abang Johari also highlighted youth as a key focus in the state's HIV response, stressing the need to equip them with knowledge, tools, and safe spaces to make informed decisions, particularly in reducing the risk of sexual transmission and safeguarding their wellbeing. He went on to call for greater collective responsibility in addressing the stigma surrounding HIV. 'For many, it is not the virus itself, but the isolation, shame, and discrimination that cause the deepest pain. This is a burden no one should bear — and it is one we all have a duty to lift,' he said. Abang Johari expressed appreciation to MAF Borneo patron Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Puan Sri Jamilah Anu for continuing the legacy of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem (affectionately known as Tok Nan), who helped to establish the first TKTN facility here nine years ago. Among present were Ministry of Health deputy-director general (Public Health) Dr Ismuni Bohari, MAF trustee Assoc Prof Dr Raja Iskandar Shah Raja Azwa as well as MAF and Malaysian AIDS Council executive director Jasmin Jalil. Abang Johari HIV support centre lead Teratak Kasih Tok Nan
