The prevention and early detection of the Human immunodeficiency virus, HIV is an important component in the response to the virus. In addition, access to accurate information and a correct understanding, especially regarding the transmission of HIV infection, can empower a person to avoid high-risk activities. Among the prevention measures is avoiding activities that can cause HIV infection. This was one of the matters emphasised by the Minister Of Health in his message in conjunction with World AIDS Day.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar said the Ministry of Health is committed to ensuring access to quality and comprehensive HIV services, by strengthening efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination, increase awareness, and ensure that every individual in need will have access to testing, treatment and appropriate care. He further explained that the Ministry of Health will always support the efforts of NGOs in the country such as the HIV Awareness Programme for Peers and Youth, HAPPY to educate adolescents and youth in increasing knowledge about sexually transmitted diseases.

In Brunei Darussalam, since the first case was reported in 1986 and as of December 2024, a total of 537 HIV cases have been recorded with 110 deaths. In 2024 alone, 44 new HIV cases were recorded, with 90 percent of the cases being men and most of those infected being young people aged between 25 and 30 years. The theme of the celebration, “OVERCOMING DISRUPTION, TRANSFORMING THE AIDS RESPONSE", is a call to strengthen global efforts to end AIDS by ensuring access to quality health services without stigma or discrimination for those infected or at risk.