Tatler Malaysia MD Gerrie Beh and Karex CEO Goh Miah Kiat have joined the board of trustees for the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF)
Cover Tatler Malaysia MD Gerrie Beh and Karex CEO Goh Miah Kiat have joined the board of trustees for the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF)
Tatler Malaysia MD Gerrie Beh and Karex CEO Goh Miah Kiat have joined the board of trustees for the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF)

The challenges are formidable, but the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF)’s leadership chaired by re-elected Professor Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman stands resolute

Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) has appointed a powerhouse team of leaders, with Professor Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman continuing to chair the Board of Trustees. Joining the board of trustees as its newest members are Tatler Malaysia’s managing director Geraldine Beh and chief executive officer of Karex Goh Miah Kiat.

Read more: The Malaysian AIDS Foundation Red Ribbon Gala Dinner 2021

The collective influence of the board of trustees signals a strengthened resolve to tackle HIV/AIDS and dismantle the persistent stigma that still clings to this public health issue.

Tatler Asia
Above Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman is a global leader in HIV and AIDS research and response

Adeeba, who has led MAF for almost two decades, brings experience and unyielding passion to her role, guiding the foundation through Malaysia’s shifting healthcare landscape. “I am honoured by the trust placed in me,” she stated. “With the support and guidance of the Board Members, the Malaysian AIDS Foundation will continue to play an instrumental role in expanding our reach and impact, touching the lives of countless individuals in need of our assistance.”

See also: The Sunway-Malaysian AIDS Foundation's Red Ribbon Gala raises RM2.5 million

Adeeba’s enduring leadership in healthcare has transformed MAF into a modern, progressive force, one that stands as both an advocate and a lifeline for those affected by HIV. “At MAF, our commitment to improving health outcomes remains steadfast,” Dr Adeeba added.

Whether through innovative programs or community outreach initiatives, we continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families nationwide.

- Professor Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman -

Beh, a driving force in Malaysia’s media landscape, adds an invigorating perspective to this mission. With her influential role at Tatler—recognised as the Voice of Asia's Excellence—Beh’s appointment reflects MAF’s commitment to pairing high-profile visibility with meaningful philanthropy. “It is a privilege to join the Board of Trustees at the Malaysian AIDS Foundation,” she said.

Building on our long-standing partnership, I look forward to utilising my role to enhance MAF’s presence within Malaysia’s philanthropic and business communities.

- Geraldine Beh -

Beh’s expertise promises to elevate MAF’s reach, leveraging her networks to rally more support in the corporate world and beyond.

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MAF’s partnership with Tatler Malaysia has already made an impact, particularly through the Red Ribbon Gala, a high-profile charity event that draws Malaysia’s elite together to support the Foundation’s mission. Since 2018, Tatler Malaysia has helped amplify the event’s visibility, making it one of the hallmark events of the country’s charitable calendar. As Beh sees it, the stakes are high, and MAF’s mission requires a “high-integrity” approach that positions the Foundation as a leading, modern force in Malaysia’s NGO landscape. Her appointment is expected to bring urgency to MAF’s outreach and advocacy work, mobilising new resources and expanding awareness.

Tatler Asia
Above Beh, a driving force in Malaysia’s media landscape

With Malaysia on a tight timeline to meet UNAIDS’ 2030 goal of ending the HIV epidemic, MAF’s initiatives—including the expansion of treatment access, community outreach, and stigma-reduction efforts—are more urgent than ever.

Read more: Infectious disease authority Dr Raja Iskandar Shah emphasises on HIV prevention and treatment to curtail transmissions

MAF’s corporate partner Karex–the world’s largest condom maker—led by trustee Goh Miah Kiat, supports the Foundation’s push for broad, sustained impact. “Our partnership with the Malaysian AIDS Foundation has spanned close to 10 years,” said Goh. His statement underscores the crucial partnership between business and non-profits, with Karex’s support ensuring MAF’s programs continue reaching Malaysia’s most underserved communities.

We are proud to be part of its mission to meet the UNAIDS challenge to end AIDS by 2030 and overcome the persistent challenges of stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS.

- Goh Miah Kiat -

Tatler Asia
Above Goh supports the Foundation’s push for broad, sustained impact

Munir Abdul Aziz, another key member of the board, reinforces the urgency of MAF’s mission. As an independent trustee of MAF and managing partner at Wong & Partners, he lends his legal and governance expertise to strengthen the foundation’s impact. “Our Board is steadfast in its commitment to uplift communities affected by HIV across Malaysia,” he emphasised. “Through dedicated advocacy, education, and comprehensive support, we strive to break down barriers and foster an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.” 

See also: World Humanitarian Day: These inspiring organisations address the needs of vulnerable Asian communities

On August 17, 2024, the Malaysian AIDS Council elected a new MAF Board of Trustees for 2024-2026 during its Annual General Meeting, ushering in a slate of leaders committed to advancing its mission:

1. Professor Dato' Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman: Chairman

2. Dr Zaiton Yahya: Honorary Secretary

3. Ken Woo Kin Fai: Honorary Treasurer

4. Associate Professor Dr Raja Iskandar Shah Raja Azwa: Trustee

5. Bakhtiar Talhah: Trustee

6. Munir Abdul Aziz: Trustee

7. Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina: Trustee

8. Goh Miah Kiat: Trustee

9. Geraldine Beh: Trustee

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Lynette Ow
Editor-in-Chief, Tatler Malaysia
Tatler Asia
Lynette_Ow

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Lynette loves travelling and dancing to Latin music almost as much as she enjoys period films and pastry desserts. She is constantly in search of the perfect nude lipstick and finds her best ideas through walks in nature.

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As the Editor-in-Chief of Tatler Malaysia, Lynette leads the content teams for print, digital and social media platforms of the brand. She has over 20 years experience in media, having been editorial director and editor-in-chief for lifestyle titles such as Cleo, ELLE, Esquire, Men’s Health, and Women’s Health.

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