1.HIV Epidemic Among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) and Transgender Women (TGW) in Sarawak, Malaysia: An analysis from the Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance (IBBS) Lite 2024
Zailatul Hani Mohamad Yadzir ; Mazliza Ramly ; Fazidah Yuswan
International Journal of Public Health Research 2026;16(1):2510-2519
HIV Epidemic Among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) and Transgender Women (TGW) in Sarawak, Malaysia: An analysis from the Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance (IBBS) Lite 2024
Introduction
Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) are
among the key populations affected by the HIV epidemic in Sarawak,
Malaysia. The objective of this study was to determine HIV prevalence and
associated behaviour among MSM and TGW in Sarawak.
Methods
Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) was used to recruit MSM and TGW
between June and August 2024. The study consisted of two components. The
first component was a behavioural survey, conducted through a selfadministered online questionnaire via a web-based platform. The second
component involved biological testing, where respondents were instructed to
visit a community-based testing site of their choice for blood testing after
completing the online survey. Statistical analysis was performed in RStudio
using the Gile's Successive Sampling Estimator.
Results
This study recruited 217 MSM and 151 TGW. Consistent condom use among
both groups remains low. While most MSM and TGW reported recent HIV
testing, Hepatitis C testing and treatment rates are still low. HIV prevalence in
Sarawak was 9.5% (95% CI: 2.9, 16.0) among MSM and 10.1% (95% CI: 1.8,
18.5) among TGW, with syphilis prevalence among MSM reaching a
concerning 12% (95% CI: 1.8, 22.3).
Conclusions
In conclusion, improving HIV prevention and care for MSM and TGW in
Sarawak requires promoting condom use, increasing awareness of Hepatitis C,
and including substance use interventions in HIV programs. Community
outreach using culturally sensitive approaches is crucial to improving access
to services and building trust. Furthermore, integrating syphilis management
into HIV prevention efforts is critical, given its strong association with
increased HIV risk. Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and
continued surveillance among key populations in Sarawak to ensure a
sustained and effective public health response.

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