Subang. In the Subang region of West Java, there are 6,000 men registered as members of the men who have sex with men (MSM) community. The Head of the Subang Health Department (Dinkes), Dr. Maxi, revealed that 94 of these individuals have been confirmed positive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Of the 94 individuals, the majority are under the age of 30 and have undergone antiretroviral (ARV) therapy. Overall, as of June 2025, the Subang Health Department has recorded a total of 3,800 HIV cases.

“Among the 3,800 HIV cases, the groups most affected are commercial sex workers (CSWs), followed by the MSM community, transgender individuals, and intravenous drug users. These four groups are at high risk for HIV transmission,” he stated on Thursday.

Out of the 6,000 members of the MSM community in Subang, around 1,098 have been officially registered in the Health Department's data.

Dr. Maxi explained that HIV treatment services in Subang are no longer centralized at the regional public hospital (RSUD) but have been extended to community health centers (puskesmas) offering Care, Support, and Treatment (CST) services.

“For example, the Pamanukan Health Center serves around 500 ARV patients, and the Jalancagak Health Center serves 98 patients,” he added.

He emphasized that HIV is not easily transmitted through casual social interactions such as shaking hands, swimming together, or using the same toilet. Transmission only occurs through three main routes: risky sexual activity, mother-to-child transmission, and sharing needles.

As a preventive measure, Dr. Maxi encourages the community to adopt the ABCDE approach:

• A: Abstinence – No sex before marriage.

• B: Be faithful – Be loyal to one partner.

• C: Condom – Use only if points A and B cannot be followed.

• D: Don’t use drugs – Avoid using drugs.

• E: Education – Understand the risks and impacts of HIV and drug use.

"With proper education, it is hoped that the community can protect themselves and their families from HIV/AIDS exposure," concluded Dr. Maxi.