The Global Fund is a worldwide movement to defeat HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria and is a cause that is very close to my heart. TB is the second mostly deadly infectious disease after COVID-19, causing 1.6 million deaths in 2021. In Indonesia, Australia’s neighbouring country, TB is still very prevalent. Indonesia has the second highest burden of TB in the world.
Being a healthcare practitioner in Indonesia, I have seen firsthand how living conditions, lack of awareness and poor access to healthcare can contribute to this disease thriving in the community. After experiencing this – I am determined to be involved in the efforts to minimise the burden of TB in developing countries.
I was introduced to Results Australia during my post graduate studies in Australia – and when I knew that Results Australia is a volunteer-driven organisation, it only took me 2 minutes to decide that I want to be involved! Being involved in meetings with MPs and raising awareness for the Global Fund through social media has really made me felt like I have a voice in addressing this issue and making tangible change.
The Global Fund has saved 50 million lives – and will save millions more with funds raised for its Seventh Replenishment. Australia will contribute to fighting TB with the pledge of AU$266 million it made to the Global Fund. If you would like to find out more about The Global Fund, and ways you can support and raise awareness to this cause – please visit The Global Fund’s website and Results Australia’s campaign to help eradicate and raise awareness on Tuberculosis.
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