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KUALA LUMPUR, 23 August 2025 — While healthy living has become a global priority, one group continues to face persistent stigma and marginalisation when accessing healthcare services – people living with HIV (PLWH). Addressing this issue, the Kuala Lumpur AIDS Support Services (KLASS) Society hosted a community forum focused on Healthy Ageing and Health Priorities for PLWH, offering a platform for dialogue between healthcare professionals, policymakers, and affected communities.

The event was chaired by Dr Chang Chung Yuan, Henry, a registered nutritionist and post-doctoral research fellow at the Institute for Research, Development and Innovation (IRDI), IMU University, who also serves as Vice President of KLASS. Dr Chang is also IMU alumnus from the PhD in Medical and Health Sciences.

In 2020, following the easing of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Henry launched The HERCULES Project — the HIV Integrated Care Unit for Allied Health Services. This community-led initiative provides integrated mental and nutritional healthcare for PLWH through a dedicated community centre. The HERCULES Project was co-founded with Mr Chung Han Yan, Deputy Director of the Malaysian AIDS Council and a registered counsellor. The project is overseen by Prof Dr James Koh Kwee Choy, Deputy Dean for Clinical Sciences, Development and Community Engagement, School of Medicine at IMU University, who serves as its Project and Clinical Advisor.

Joining the forum as guest speakers were A/Prof Dr Reena Rajasuriar of Universiti Malaya and Dato Dr Suresh Kumar Chidambaram, Chair of the National Infection and Antibiotic Control (NARC) Technical Committee and Senior Infectious Diseases Consultant at Hospital Sungai Buloh.

Prior to the panel discussion, Chew Han Hoong, an intern at KLASS, presented findings from a survey-based study titled “Community Engagement for Healthy Ageing in PLWH: Exploring Post-COVID Changes in Concerns and Support Needs.” The presentation provided important context for the forum by highlighting shifting priorities and unmet needs within the HIV community in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nearly 20 participants attended the forum in person, including representatives from key populations, hospital staff, healthcare providers from Klinik Kesihatan, and district health officers. Additional participants joined virtually, reflecting growing interest and support for community-based HIV healthcare initiatives.

More than just an academic event, the forum served as a heartfelt gesture of appreciation from the community to the healthcare leaders who continue to champion stigma-free and inclusive care. The gathering also fostered open, two-way communication between the community and healthcare providers—creating a safe space where all voices could be heard and respected.

Looking ahead, the organising team plans to expand the forum’s reach by engaging a wider network of stakeholders, including private sector partners. Their goal is to build sustainable, cross-sector collaborations that ensure equitable access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, free from stigma and discrimination.

Submitted by Dr Chang Chung Yuan, Henry