MISCONCEPTIONS, embarrassment and persistent social stigma continue to keep Malaysians from using condoms consistently, fuelling preventable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contributing to new HIV cases nationwide, experts warn.
Despite decades of public health campaigns, many Malaysians still avoid condoms due to cultural discomfort, moral judgment and misinformation, creating a growing public health risk that experts say can no longer be ignored.
Harm Reduction Action Network (HaRAN) founder and president Dr Anita Suleiman said the reluctance to use condoms is deeply rooted in social attitudes and false beliefs.
"Myths play a big role. Some think condoms reduce pleasure, others feel embarrassed to buy them or believe they’re only for 'certain types of people'. These ideas are harmful," she said.
She also highlighted a growing trend known as 'chem use' or 'chem fun' where recreational drugs are used during sex, especially among younger adults and certain communities. The effect of the substances, she said, is worrying.
"Certain substances can lower inhibitions, making people less likely to think about protection. In these situations, condoms are often forgotten entirely. This behaviour significantly increases the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
She stressed that condoms remain 'one of the simplest and most effective tools' in preventing infection, but only if people feel empowered and confident enough to use them.
While condoms are widely available in Malaysia, many people still do not know how to use them correctly.
“Many believe they do, but mistakes are common, such as wrong size, late use, expired condoms or failure to check for damage.
"These errors lead to breakage or slippage. Better education would significantly reduce these risks," she said.
Commenting further, Malaysian Aids Foundation (MAF) and Malaysian Aids Council (MAC) Executive Director Jasmin Jalil said the issue goes beyond embarrassment; it reflects deeper misconceptions about trust, risk and responsibility in relationships.
“Many people tell themselves that they trust their partner, so they don’t need a condom. But trust does not protect you from HIV or STIs.
“What we are seeing is not a lack of condoms, but a lack of understanding that anyone who is sexually active, regardless of background or orientation, needs protection," he said.
Jasmin added that misinformation continues to mislead Malaysians into thinking condoms are only necessary for certain groups.
“The idea that condoms are only for sex workers or certain communities is still very common. This stereotype is harmful because it gives people a false sense of immunity,” he added.
On condom education, Jasmin stressed that technical mistakes remain a neglected cause of infections.
“Incorrect usage is definitely a factor. People put it on late, use oil-based lubricants that weaken the latex or don’t check for small tears.
“We cannot assume condom availability equals condom literacy. NGOs spend a lot of time teaching correct use, discreetly and respectfully, especially among youth," he said.
Access is still limited for youth and conservative communities
Jasmin also highlighted how social judgment continues to prevent young Malaysians from obtaining condoms openly.
“For a lot of young people, the fear isn’t the price, it’s the look they think they’ll get from the cashier. That hesitation may feel small, but its consequences can last a lifetime," he said.
He added that while MAC and MAF run programmes that distribute condoms free of charge, access gaps still exist in lower-income and rural communities.
"We believe that improving discreet and affordable access to condoms, in line with public health needs and local sensitivities, is a practical way to reduce new infections,” he said.