The survey of 1,089 Malaysians aged between 18 and 30 nationwide was conducted by Durex in April and May. The results show that 35.4% respondents claimed to have had sexual intercourse, in contrast with 18.8% in the previous survey.
A large majority (62%) had their first sexual experience before age 22, compared with 42% six years ago.
The research also demonstrated that misconceptions pertaining to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy are still prevalent. Of those surveyed, 31% believed the myth that a woman cannot get pregnant during her period, while 20% said they were unsure.
Asked if a woman could get pregnant the first time she engaged in sex, 31% said they did not know, down from 35% six years ago.
More than a fifth of respondents (22%, versus 18.3% in 2016) wrongly believed mosquitoes could transmit STIs, while 23% thought HIV could be transmitted through toilet seats. The figure in the previous survey was 10%.
The study further revealed the following:
- 35% believed two condoms at the same time are better than one. In 2016, the figure was 20%;
- 16% thought it was shameful to get tested for an STI and would rather not get tested;
- almost 40% believed the myth that STIs are only transmitted through penetrative sex;
- 41% believed masturbation is bad for health;
- more than 50% believed men who carry condoms are responsible, whereas women who do so are sexual;
- more than one out of every five youths have “sexted” – that is, sent a provocative text or lewd photo – before;
- one in 20 Malaysian women has experienced an unwanted pregnancy;
- 60% perceived sex to be pleasurable, even though one in four found their first sexual experience to be painful; and
- 42% of youths prefer sex without a condom.
“Sexual-health conversations are crucial to ensure Malaysian youths are empowered to make informed decisions,” said Tiffany Tang of health, hygiene and nutrition company Reckitt Benckiser.
“We hope that, through the findings, more opportunities for open conversations on sex and sexuality can be done to create a safe space for youths to share experiences, educate themselves, and ask questions.
“The more informed they are, the more prepared they are to make better choices.”