KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 – With the rise in sexual activity among youths in Malaysia, Durex, a leading sexual wellbeing brand, is taking bold steps in providing a safe platform for young Malaysians to 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 Generation Z’s first intercourse experience is between 15 and 22 years old.
One in three believe that sex shown in pornography is normal sex, and more alarmingly, 31 per cent do not know that a woman could get pregnant the first time she engages in sex.
Almost 40 per cent believe the myth that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are only transmitted through penetrative sex, and more than one out of five youths have sexted (sent a provocative text or lewd photo) before.
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, and drive conversations around the subject matter without fear or stigma.
The Durex Academy, which is an extension of the #COMETOGETHER initiative, now takes that same objective to the next level.
Aimed at cultivating safe and healthy intimate practices, encouraging more open conversations around sex and destigmatising myths and taboos surrounding sexual education, Durex Academy is a continuous effort to address the survey findings by breaking it down into learning modules covering three main syllabuses.
Kicked off by Ms Puiyi earlier in the month, the campaign will feature an online semester covering three main subjects, namely Let’s Warm Up, #ComeTogether Prepared and Sexy Facts 101.
Each subject is designed to address misconceptions and educate young Malaysians about accurate and enlightening information about sex, health, and pleasurable safety.
The segments will cover topics such as consent and bodily autonomy, STI prevention, and communication and relationship skills.
Making the subjects even more interactive are the Masterclass video sessions conducted by Durex Academy lecturers Daphne Iking, Alex Chee, and Alvy Joanna.
As an added bonus, students at Durex Academy will also receive a personalised certificate and a mystery gift once they have completed the S-Level exams online, and be empowered with better knowledge, understanding, and the confidence to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
“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 wellbeing.
“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 Durex Malaysia marketing manager Jerome Goh.
The Durex Academy will also be running on-ground workshops in colleges and universities in the Klang Valley in collaboration with SPOT Malaysia, a comprehensive sexual education provider whose vision is to help young people become confident and resilient in making informed decisions for their wellbeing.
To launch the initiative, Durex Academy hosted an Open Day which featured interactive educational exhibits, introductions to the online lecturers, and a panel discussion with certified sexologist Andrea Koh and SPOT Malaysia founder Siti Aishah.
The constructive dialogue touched on real-life issues that youths struggle with, barriers that are preventing progress, and the evolving sexual trends of today.
“Sex education is a powerful tool. It dismantles ignorance, dispels myths, and fosters a culture of consent, respect, and healthy sexual expression.
“By embracing comprehensive sex education, we pave the way for a future where individuals are equipped to navigate their own sexual journey with wisdom, compassion, and the freedom to embrace their authentic selves,” Goh added.
Durex has been committed in supporting more knowledgeable reproductive health care and raising awareness of protection worldwide through the establishment of effective sexual health initiatives.
The Durex Academy is part of that commitment and aims to increase young people’s knowledge and improve their attitudes related to sexual and reproductive health and behaviours.
Check out the 11 most common myths about sex and the truth behind it:
Myth: A woman cannot get pregnant during her first-time having sex.
Fact: Pregnancy is possible anytime there is vaginal penetration with a penis, even if it’s your first time.
Myth: Two condoms doubled up are better than one.
Fact: The friction caused by two condoms rubbing against each other create micro-tears, making them prone to break during intercourse and less effective.
Myth: You don’t need to get tested for STIs if you’ve only had oral sex.
Fact: Any exchange of bodily fluids, oral or genital contact, can spread STIs. It’s important to get tested even if you haven’t had penetrative sex.
Myth: Masturbation is bad for health.
Fact: Masturbation is a healthy sexual activity. It can benefit your physical and mental health. It is also a natural and safe way to explore your body.
Myth: Condoms make sex less pleasurable.
Fact: Condoms have little to no effect on the pleasure experienced during sex, with some condoms even increasing pleasure and chances of orgasm.
Myth: Sex education and talking about sex would only encourage sex.
Fact: Comprehensive sex education often encourage youths to delay sexual activity and to practice safer sex when they are sexually active.
Myth: The pull-out method is foolproof for preventing pregnancy.
Fact: The pull-out or withdrawal method can result in pregnancy since pregnancy can occur from pre-ejaculation fluid.
Myth: Sex in real life is just like sex in the movies or pornography.
Fact: Like the movies, sex in pornography is fiction meant to entertain people. Sex in real life isn’t scripted and is far more realistic and intimate.
Myth: Woman always experience orgasm with penetrative sex.
Fact: Not all women have an orgasm during penetrative vaginal sex. Most women are orgasmic only during stimulation of the clitoris.
Myth: You can tell if someone has a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
Fact: The truth is that many STDs don’t show outward symptoms or may not show up until much later.
Myth: Your first time is supposed to hurt.
Fact: You may encounter pain or irritation if your genitals aren’t lubricated (wet) enough — using lube helps make sex more comfortable and enjoyable.
