Ending AIDS by 2030: The Challenges Facing Indonesia
Illustration of an HIV ribbon, as a form of concern for HIV cases. Shutterstock/doc
A Global Call to Action on World AIDS Day
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has outlined the significant hurdles Indonesia faces in its fight to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. Dr. Muhammad Saleem, UNAIDS Indonesia Country Director, emphasizes the critical role public education and awareness play in combating the stigma and discrimination that remain major obstacles to effective HIV treatment.
“Public education and advocacy for more inclusive policies are critical to ensuring global targets are achieved. Without immediate action, new HIV infections will increase, and the response to HIV will be unsustainable,” Dr. Saleem stated.
His words echo a global urgency, underscored by UNAIDS 2024 epidemiological estimates projections that foresee 1.3 million new HIV infections and 630,000 AIDS-related deaths worldwide in 2023.
Progress and Persistent Challenges in Indonesia
While globally, 30.3 million out of the 39.9 million people living with HIV are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ARV), a concerning statistic emerges – only 48% of children living with HIV reach the crucial milestone of viral suppression.
In Indonesia, the situation presents both progress and challenges. While 71% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) are aware of their status, and 64% are undergoing ARV treatment, only 49% have achieved viral suppression. This highlights a critical gap in ensuring long-term health outcomes for those living with HIV.
Dr. Saleem further points to the rising number of key populations vulnerable to HIV infection and the limited access to adequate health services as additional challenges unique to the Indonesian context.
He highlights the need for increased provision of prevention packages, including condoms and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), underscoring the importance of targeted interventions to reach those most at risk.
Community-Driven Outreach and Innovative Testing
In response to these challenges, community outreach to key populations is being implemented across 178 districts/cities in Indonesia, with the provision of prevention packages in 95 districts/cities. This grassroots approach aims to ensure that marginalized communities have access to vital information and resources.
Furthermore, the introduction of independent HIV testing using the Oral Fluid Test is revolutionizing early detection efforts. This innovation promises to significantly streamline the testing process, potentially leading to faster treatment initiation and, ultimately, better health outcomes.
A Collaborative Effort for a Healthier Future
Dr. Saleem emphasizes the
importance of a united front in achieving the ambitious goal of ending the AIDS epidemic. He believes that collaborative efforts between the government, non-governmental organizations, and civil society are essential to ensure the necessary resources and support are in place.
“Therefore, with collaboration between the government, non-governmental organizations and society, it is hoped that Indonesia can achieve the targets set by UNAIDS and end the AIDS epidemic by 2030,” he said.
The commemoration of World AIDS Day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for continued action. Dr. Saleem stresses the importance of unwavering commitment, heightened awareness, and swift, decisive action to ensure a brighter future for all individuals living with HIV.
“Ending AIDS is possible if we act now and follow the right path,” Dr. Saleem concludes.
His words serve as a clarion call to action, emphasizing the collective responsibility we all share in putting an end to this global health crisis once and for all.
According to Dr. Saleem, what are the key steps needed to ensure that everyone living with HIV in Indonesia has access to necessary care?
## Ending AIDS by 2030: An Interview with Dr. Muhammad Saleem
**Host:** Welcome back! Today, we’re focusing on World AIDS Day and the ambitious goal of ending AIDS by 2030. Joining us is Dr. Muhammad Saleem, UNAIDS Indonesia Country Director. Dr. Saleem, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Saleem**: It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Host**: UNAIDS has stated that Indonesia faces significant challenges in achieving this goal. Could you elaborate on those challenges?
**Dr. Saleem**: Indonesia has made progress, with 71% of people living with HIV aware of their status and 64% on antiretroviral treatment [[2](https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/ce9d9f890d0847ed95a415b757314751)]. However, only 49% have achieved viral suppression. This gap is worrying because it impacts long-term health outcomes.
Additionally, we see a rising number of key populations vulnerable to HIV infection, and access to adequate healthcare remains a challenge in many areas.
**Host**: So, what needs to be done to bridge this gap and ensure everyone living with HIV in Indonesia can access the care they need?
**Dr. Saleem**: It’s a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, public education and awareness are crucial to combatting the stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV, which prevent many from seeking testing and treatment [[2](https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/ce9d9f890d0847ed95a415b757314751)].
Secondly, we need to increase the availability of prevention packages, including condoms and PrEP, targeting those most at risk.
community-driven outreach programs are essential to reach underserved populations and ensure they have access to testing, treatment, and support.
**Host**: Dr. Saleem, your message is clear: tackling the HIV/AIDS epidemic requires a coordinated effort involving governments, health organizations, and communities.
**Dr. Saleem**: Absolutely. Ending AIDS by 2030 is achievable, but it requires urgent action and a renewed commitment from all stakeholders.
