Pubdate: Mon, 05 Sep 2005
Source: Northern Territory News (Australia)
Copyright: 2005 Northern Territory News
Contact:  http://ntnews.news.com.au/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/283

NEEDLES, CONDOMS DISTRIBUTION

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia yesterday denied it was holding off on the
distribution of needles and condoms to drug addicts because of opposition
from Islamic religious groups.

Health Minister Chua Soi Lek said the program was crucial to contain the
spread of HIV/AIDS.

"The staff have to be trained and educated properly before this program can
be introduced," Mr Chua said, national news agency Bernama reported.

The media reported yesterday the program had been put on hold after some
Islamic groups said it would give the impression that the authorities
condone drug use and casual sex.

Mr Chua said a pilot project to supply needles and condoms to 1200
intravenous drug users in four cities - Kuala Lumpur, Johor Baru, Penang and
Kuantan - would start in january. 
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MAP posted-by: Josh