Bridging the Gap: Assessing PrEP Uptake and HIV Prevention among At-Risk Populations in Malaysia

Muhammad Rezuan Mohd Sauni; Wan Ismahanisa Ismail; Apriningsih; Rusnani Ab Latif

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI35.7502

Authors

Muhammad Rezuan Mohd Sauni Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Kampus Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia; Klinik Kesihatan Mahmoodiah, Jalan Mahmoodiah, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Wan Ismahanisa Ismail Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Kampus Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia; Health Science Faculty, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta, Jakarta 12450, Indonesia; Division of Medical Laboratory Technology, Department of Health, Faculty of Vocational Studies, Universitas Airlangga Surabaya, Indonesia.
Apriningsih Health Science Faculty, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta, Jakarta 12450, Indonesia.
Rusnani Ab Latif Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Kampus Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI35.7502

Keywords:

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, Trend, Issue

Abstract

HIV remains a major public health concern in Malaysia, particularly among men who have sex with men, sex workers, and people who inject drugs. Although national prevalence is low (0.4%), new infections among individuals aged 18–39 are increasing, driven by sexual transmission. Since 2018, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been introduced, yet stigma, financial barriers, and cultural sensitivities hinder uptake. This narrative review analyses national data and literature to identify implementation challenges and propose solutions. Findings highlight the need for integrated primary care, subsidies, education, and community engagement to promote PrEP as both a preventive and health equity measure.

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