Health is everyone’s right. Yet many people still hesitate—especially when it comes to HIV or sexual health—because of stigma and fear.
This is where the Angsamerah Foundation steps in with a different approach: community-based services. Since 2019, the Community-Based Testing program has helped people feel safer and more comfortable getting tested. And through collaborations like the ASEAN – Japan Youth Forum 2024, this spirit is reaching even further.
Of course, the journey is not without challenges:
- Stigma is real. Many fear discrimination. The solution? Human-centered education and health services that are “friendly to everyone.”
- Lack of information. Many women and vulnerable groups still have little knowledge about sexual health. Continuous education, involving community leaders and local organizations, is key to raising awareness.
- Limited funding. Community programs often struggle with resources. Here, the social entrepreneurship model provides answers: private clinics contribute to supporting social programs, creating large-scale and sustainable solutions.
To reach more people, Angsamerah applies simple yet effective strategies:
- Strong Collaboration and Networking – Partnering with international institutions, the private sector, and local communities to support long-term sustainability.
- A Holistic Approach to Health Screening –
- Integrating HIV testing with basic health screenings to reduce stigma.
- Mobile VCT goes beyond HIV, including general health checks, so communities feel more comfortable joining.
- Well-trained Human Resources – Medical staff and community volunteers receive continuous training, including communication skills, so health education is easier to understand.
- Digitalization of Services – Teleconsultation and electronic medical records expand access, especially for those in remote areas.
Looking Ahead
Through a sustainable, evidence-based, and collaborative approach, Angsamerah continues to strengthen the Community-Based Testing model to reach more communities. Initiatives like the ASEAN – Japan Youth Forum 2024 show how youth, communities, and health organizations can unite to achieve real change.
With the right strategies and strong partnerships, Angsamerah is not only providing health services but also building a sustainable ecosystem, giving every individual the opportunity to access better health—because everyone deserves to be healthy and thrive.
Every small step from a community can open the way to bigger change. Health is not just for one person—it’s a shared joy and a collective effort. When communities move together, good health becomes more accessible to all!
