At the high tea, MAF received donations for the financial programme for women with HIV. Pictured here are donors Tina Fazlita Fadzil and Lee with Dr Adeeba, Jamilah, MAF vice president Jasmin Jalil and Ramona. Photos: The Star/Yap Chee Hong
“But, I wouldn’t have been able to kickstart my home business in 2022 without the RM5,000 grant from the Malaysian AIDS Foundation ,” said Jamaliah during MAF’s Poise & Power high tea celebration in Kuala Lumpur recently. The programme also covers training on essential skills such as social media promotions, money management, and photography, empowering women to effectively market their products, manage their finances, and create high-quality visual content.So far, 70% of the women enrolled in the scheme have repaid their business loans, and Jamaliah is one of them. During the recent event, she spoke about her experiences as a person living with HIV, and her success as an entrepreneur.
Before running her business, Jamaliah worked with a non-governmental organisation that supports people living with HIV. ‘MAF has always advocated for the rights of women living with HIV, ensuring they have equitable access to economic opportunities,’ says Dr Adeeba. “ARV therapy supports improved physical health, mental well-being, and social functioning, empowering women to pursue their goals, contribute to their communities, and participate fully in society. Access to ARV treatment is a crucial component in the global effort to end the HIV epidemic and enhance the lives of those affected by the virus,” she added.