AfA Response Statement to Key HIV Statistics in Singapore 2025
The increase from 151 to 166 new HIV cases in Singapore in 2025 is an alarm bell, we cannot be complacent when it comes to HIV prevention. While annual notification numbers may fluctuate, a not insubstantial increase after recent declines is concerning, particularly when more than half of new diagnoses continue to be detected at late stage of infection. This indicates that our current HIV prevention and testing programmes must still be improved.
This also highlights the need to strengthen Singapore’s HIV response strategy beyond awareness campaigns alone. We need to normalise regular HIV testing, reduce stigma and expand access to effective HIV prevention tools, especially Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis or PrEP.
PrEP is one of the most effective HIV prevention tools available today but uptake in Singapore remains limited by cost, awareness and accessibility. To achieve our goal of ending HIV as a major health concern by 2030, we must have national programme that makes PrEP affordable, accessible and integrated into sexual health/STI services. Countries in the region have already demonstrated that this can be done successfully. Malaysia’s national PrEP rollout is an example of what can be achieved when academia, government agencies, healthcare services and community organisations work together. We can and must do the same here in Singapore.
The availability of HIV self-testing kits in Singapore is an important step forward. Self-testing provides a confidential and convenient option for individuals who may be hesitant to visit a clinic, and we hope this will encourage earlier and more regular testing. However, self-testing must be accompanied by referral pathways for confirmatory testing, treatment (for positives), and prevention services (for negatives).
Chronos Kwok
Executive Director
Action for AIDS Singapore (AfA)