WITH the rise in sexual activity amongst youths in Malaysia, Durex, the world’s #1 sexual well-being brand, is providing a safe platform where young Malaysians can learn and find the right information and facts about sexual health at the first ever Durex Academy.
Based on a survey conducted in 2022, the average age of Gen Z’s first sexual intercourse experience is between 15 and 22 years old, and the further numbers are more alarming.
One in 3 believe that sex as depicted in pornography is representative of normal sex and even worse, 31% did not know that a woman could get pregnant the first time she engages in sex.
Almost 40% believe the myth that STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are only transmitted through penetrative sex and more than 1 out of 5 youth have sexted (sent a provocative text or lewd photo).
These findings initiated the Durex #cometogether campaign, which focuses on helping young Malaysians speak out and learn about sex through an enjoyable, safe and reliable platform, as well as drive conversations around the subject matter without fear or any stigma.
Aimed at cultivating safe and healthy intimate practices, encouraging more open conversations around sex and destigmatising myths and taboos surrounding sexuality education, Durex Academy is an effort to address the survey findings by breaking it down into learning modules covering three main syllabuses.
The campaign will feature an online semester covering three main syllabus which are Let’s Warm Up, #ComeTogether Prepared and Sexy Facts 101. Each syllabus has been designed to address misconceptions and educate young Malaysians on accurate and enlightening information about sex, health and pleasurable safety.
The segments will cover topics such as consent and bodily autonomy; sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention; and communication and relationship skills. Making it even more interactive are the Masterclass video sessions conducted by Durex Academy lecturers Daphne Iking, Alex Chee and Alvy Joanna.
To launch the initiative, Durex Academy hosted an Open Day featuring Iking, Chee and Joanna, and a panel discussion with certified sexologist, Andrea Koh and SPOT Malaysia founder, Siti.
As an added bonus, students of Durex Academy will also receive a personalised e-certificate and a mystery gift once they have completed the S-Level exams online.
Targeted at college and university students, Durex Academy will be running on-ground workshops in partnership with SPOT Malaysia, a comprehensive sex education provider whose vision is to help young people become confident and resilient in making informed decisions for their well-being.
“We recognise that there is a genuine need to equip Malaysian youth with the right information about sex. Sex education is the compass that empowers individuals to navigate the complex terrain of relationships, intimacy, and personal well-being.
“It illuminates the path towards informed choices, consent, and responsible decision-making, fostering a society where knowledge conquers ignorance and respect triumphs over fear,” said Jerome Goh, marketing manager, Durex Malaysia. – The Vibes, June 1, 2023
