July 17, 2009 21:57 PM

Man U Star Says Education Will Alleviate Stigma Against HIV/AIDS

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 (Bernama) -- Educating the public on HIV and Aids will help break down the stigma and allow infected children to lead a normal life, Unicef ambassador Ryan Giggs who is also a Manchester United player said.

"Hopefully today we can put across that message. There is no need to shun them or disown them. They are only children.

"Maybe they have different background and experiences in life but they too have aspirations," he told a news conference after visiting nine children who are children of sex workers, drug users, refugees and people living with HIV and Aids at the PT Foundation's office here.

Also present were two other Manchester United players, Patrice Evra and Fererico Macheda, as well as Manchester United Foundation CEO, John Shiels and Unicef Malaysia Representative, Youssouf Oomar.

Giggs described the children "lovely and intelligent."

Kuala Lumpur is the first stop for Manchester United in their Asian Tour 2009.

The players led by manager Sir Alex Ferguson had earlier arrived at the KL International Airport.

At least 60,000 Malaysian fans of the Red Devils are expected to be at the Bukit Jalil Stadium tomorrow to watch the English Premier League champions take on the Malaysian selection.

-- BERNAMA

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