Yesterday in Maros, South Sulawesi, #misssupranational2024 Miss Supranational 2024 – Harashta Haifa Zahra continued her work with the Sasakawa Leprosy -Hansen’s Disease- Initiative She had the chance to meet health care workers, young learners and members of the media. The mission to raise awareness and educating people about leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is important and we hope to do much more.

Indonesia ranks third globally in the number of leprosy cases, and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy remains a significant issue. PerMaTa’s South Sulawesi branch, the most active within the organization, works closely with YDTI to combat stigma and provide much needed-support to those affected.

“Stigma and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy have decreased significantly compared to a decade ago, but we are far from eliminating them,” said Al Kadri, Chairman of PerMaTa. “Particularly for those with disabilities or the elderly, finding employment is nearly impossible. Children raised in leprosy settlements often lack educational opportunities, and with the decline in new cases, the availability of adequate healthcare services has diminished. Leprosy treatment is challenging due to side effects, stigma, and self-stigma. Post-treatment complications, including reactions and disabilities, make ongoing support for those affected urgent. PerMaTa’s young members conduct home visits to provide emotional and physical support to these people during their recovery.”

Let’s work together to end the stigma and discrimination surrounding it. We should LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND.