Indonesian local governments strengthen HIV/AIDS prevention efforts

Local governments in Pekanbaru and Medan are expanding community-based strategies to combat HIV/AIDS transmission and reduce social stigma.

In Pekanbaru, the municipal government has partnered with the Majelis Dakwah Islamiyah (MDI) to involve over 1,000 religious preachers. These individuals will use their platforms, such as Friday sermons, to educate the public on health risks and prevention methods. Vice Mayor Markarius Anwar emphasized that religious leaders provide strategic access to communities through mosques to reach a wider audience.

In Medan, officials are working with the Yayasan Peduli Anak dengan HIV dan AIDS (YP ADHA) to support children living with the virus. The city is focusing on early detection, particularly for pregnant women and engaged couples, and providing free medical services. Leaders highlighted the importance of accurate education to eliminate the fear and discrimination often faced by those affected by the disease.