Malaysian Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek unveiled staggering statistics revealing that between 2018 and 2022, a total of 913 adolescents aged 13 to 17 were diagnosed with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
These STDs encompassed Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chancroid, and HIV, as indicated by the Ministry of Health. "In 2018, there were 255 cases reported within the 13 to 17 age group, followed by 225 cases in 2019, 191 cases in 2020, 96 cases in 2021, and 146 cases in 2022."
During the parliamentary session on October 26, Minister Fadhlina responded to inquiries from Hajah Halimah Ali, the MP for Indera Mahkota. She noted that in 2019, 3% of students who underwent urine tests were found positive for drug use. "In 2022, the percentage was 1.18, and as of September 2023, it had dropped to 0.64."
The Minister further emphasized the decrease in the dropout rate from 1.21% in 2018 to 0.99% in 2022. These figures evoke deep regret, prompting a call for parents and educators to instil comprehensive sexual education, while also acknowledging the pivotal role of adolescents in assimilating, contemplating, and making responsible choices for themselves and others.
