In a written parliamentary reply, Dzulkefly said a total of 2,037 HIV cases recorded in 2024 had involved homosexuals or bisexuals.

“One of the main factors behind the rise in HIV infections through sexual relations is the inconsistent use of condoms, especially among high-risk groups.

“This challenge is made even more complex when the use of drugs and prohibited substances becomes more rampant, especially among youths, leading to a rise in risky sexual behaviour.

“This includes not using a condom or having sexual relations with more than one partner while under the influence of drugs,” said the minister.

Dzulkefly was responding to Ahmad Saad (PN-Pokok Sena) who had asked for the statistics of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) specifically among gay men, as well as the factors contributing to the “development of this deviant behaviour”.

He said in 2021, 63% of HIV infections reportedly involved homosexual or bisexual relationships.

Dzulkefly said his ministry has taken several steps to curb the spread of HIV, including running campaigns to raise awareness and encouraging the public to go for periodic screenings and seek antiretroviral therapy if they have contracted the disease.

“The ministry wants to remind everyone that STDs, especially HIV, can be transmitted to anyone, regardless of their sexual tendencies or way of life.

“This can occur through unsafe sexual relations with someone who has contracted the disease. Therefore, always practise a healthy lifestyle and protect your loved ones.”