REFLECTION ON WORLD AIDS DAY: 52,793 CASES IN PAPUA, THE ONLY WAY TO OVERCOME "FEAR OF GOD"

The commemoration of World AIDS Day, which falls on December 1, 2023, is not only a moment to remember those affected by HIV/AIDS but also a call to strengthen collaboration and increase solidarity in efforts to overcome this pandemic. New data released by the Papua Provincial Health Office shows that the number of HIV/AIDS cases reached 52,793 as of September 30, 2023. This figure is not an ordinary occurrence but rather an extraordinary challenge that requires serious attention and concrete action from all parties. It should be recognised that Papua New Guinea is one of the main focuses of efforts to combat HIV/AIDS in Indonesia. In response to this situation, collaboration should be strengthened between the provincial government, the central government, and other elements of society. Solidarity with people with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) must also be continuously improved so that they not only feel supported but also actively involved in the prevention and control of this disease. The importance of implementing strategies like Suluh, find, treat, and maintain (STOP) as a method of prevention and management of HIV/AIDS should not be ignored. However, in this reflection, the author highlights one key aspect that is the only way to break the chain of spread of this virus, which is "the fear of God." Although the term can be interpreted variously by individuals, it can be a call to raise moral awareness, responsibility, and religious values in society.

Faced with this great challenge, the authors are committed to working together towards the National Three Zeroes SPM Goals, which include the absence of new HIV infections, the absence of deaths from AIDS, and the absence of stigma and discrimination against PLWHA. This commitment is not only the responsibility of the government but also of each individual and element of society. Collective efforts and active involvement of all parties are needed to achieve the final target of AIDS by 2030 set by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. Through these reflections, let us together transform our views into concrete actions. By opening our minds, raising awareness, and acting collectively, Papua New Guinea can be truly free from the burden of HIV/AIDS. All individuals, regardless of background or social status, have an important role to play in creating this positive change. Initiatives such as the Pam GKI Klasis Port Numbay-Jayapura medical community initiated by the author are an inspiring first step towards better change. Don't let this staggering number of cases just be statistics. Let's unite, work together, and bring positive change to create a society free from the burden of HIV/AIDS. It is time to commit, act, and together make the fear of God a moral driver in breaking the chain of the spread of HIV/AIDS in Papua province and throughout Indonesia.