Persistent social stigma continue to prevent many Malaysians from using condoms consistently, fuelling a rise in preventable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and new HIV cases.

Experts warn that these barriers are especially pronounced in Muslim communities, where religious and cultural sensitivities complicate both public health messaging and personal choices.

Stigma Runs Deep—And It’s Costing Lives

Despite years of public health campaigns, condom use remains low due to myths about pleasure, embarrassment when buying them, and the stereotype that condoms are only for “certain types of people”.

According to Sinar Daily, Dr Anita Suleiman, founder and president of Harm Reduction Action Network (HaRAN), says these beliefs are dangerous: “Myths play a big role. Some think condoms reduce pleasure, others feel embarrassed to buy them, or believe they’re only for ‘certain types of people’. These ideas are harmful.”

The problem is compounded by trends such as ‘chem use’—sex combined with recreational drug use—which lowers inhibitions and makes safe sex less likely. “This behaviour significantly increases the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections,” Dr Suleiman warned.

Technical errors in condom use—such as using the wrong size, applying late, or not checking for damage—are also common, with many falsely believing they know how to use condoms correctly. “Better education would significantly reduce these risks,” she added.

Trust, Misconceptions and Religious Sensitivities

Jasmin Jalil, Executive Director of the Malaysian Aids Foundation (MAF) and Malaysian Aids Council (MAC), points out that the issue goes beyond embarrassment. “Many people tell themselves that they trust their partner, so they don’t need a condom. But trust does not protect you from HIV or STIs.” Sinar Daily reported.

Stereotypes persist that condoms are only necessary for sex workers or certain communities, which leaves many feeling immune to risk.

Access is still limited for youth and conservative communities, not only due to cost but the fear of judgement when obtaining condoms. “For a lot of young people, the fear isn’t the price, it’s the look they think they’ll get from the cashier. That hesitation may feel small, but its consequences can last a lifetime,” Jasmin said.

Religious Perspectives: Islam Supports Health Protection Within Marriage

The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) acknowledges that stigma surrounding condoms and HIV prevention is undermining public health efforts, particularly within Muslim communities where ‘condom shame’ persists.

Jakim attributes this to cultural and religious sensitivities—where condoms are often wrongly associated solely with premarital sex rather than their intended role in health protection.

In its latest review of the Islamic Manual on HIV/AIDS (2025), Jakim emphasised that Islam does not encourage negative assumptions or discrimination towards people living with HIV/AIDS. “HIV/AIDS is not only a health issue, but also a social and Islamic religious issue,” the department noted.

Crucially, Jakim clarified that condom use within a lawful marriage is permitted when intended for health protection—including when one spouse is HIV positive. “In situations where a married couple is affected, condom use is recognised as a preventive option that aligns with the objective of preserving life and health,” Jakim stated. However, condom use outside marriage remains inconsistent with religious teachings.

Recently, Jakim has worked with the Health Ministry, MAF, state mufti offices and Islamic religious departments to update guidelines in the Islamic Manual on HIV/AIDS. The revised manual focuses on prevention, treatment, stigma reduction, and youth education. Training for religious officers, imams, teachers and marriage registrars is now guided by these updated principles.

“Educating religious leaders is essential so they can convey accurate, shariah-compliant information on HIV/AIDS to the community,” Jakim said. Collaboration with the Health Ministry’s Healthy Programme Without Aids for Youth aims to reduce stigma and improve HIV literacy nationwide.

Jakim also expressed concern over rising HIV infections—especially among men who have sex with men—stressing that prevention must be a shared responsibility across sectors. “Our focus is on strengthening Islamic understanding that emphasises protecting personal dignity and preventing harm,” the department said.

On enforcement actions such as recent raids on gay spas in Kuala Lumpur, Jakim urged balance: “Enforcement should not create fear that discourages individuals from seeking testing or treatment.” Empathy and prudence were cited as crucial to reducing stigma and ensuring at-risk groups feel safe accessing support.

Breaking the Cycle of Shame

Philosophical research shows shame operates at a deep psychological level—often reinforced by language framing HIV as ‘dirty’ or immoral. Shame pushes individuals to hide information from clinicians, avoid clinics for testing, or not disclose their status to partners—behaviour with real-life consequences.

Experts and religious leaders now agree: fighting HIV requires tackling shame directly, improving education about correct condom use, ensuring discreet access for all Malaysians and updating religious guidance.

As stigma and shame continue to undermine Malaysia’s progress against HIV and STIs, experts warn it’s time for a new approach—one that empowers everyone to protect themselves without fear or judgement.