Period poverty, the struggle to afford safe and hygienic menstrual products, is a real issue in Malaysia. ATLAS Vending, a vending machine company, is tackling this challenge head-on with innovative technology and a social conscience.
Partnering with Libresse, a hygiene brand under Etika, and Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Dr. Wan Azizah binti Dr. Wan Ismail, a Member of the Malaysian Parliament, ATLAS Vending has introduced free sanitary pad dispensing machines. These machines utilize a card access system, ensuring privacy and dignity for users.
This initiative prioritizes marginalized communities, particularly young women. Up to 600 recipients from Sekolah Menengah Sains Selangor, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Bandar Tun Razak and Hospital Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz UKM (formerly Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysian) will have access to free sanitary pads each month. Those in need of sanitary pads will be able to access them via a card access system to ensure privacy and prevent misuse of the vending machine and the products.
The fight against period poverty goes beyond providing access to products. ATLAS Vending acknowledges the need to address the cultural stigma surrounding menstruation. They see potential in social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube to educate both women and men about menstrual health.
“It’s time to break the taboo surrounding menstruation so that young women know the best way to take care of themselves during their periods. Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube can provide accessible knowledge and education, even for men, promoting better menstrual health practices.”“
Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Dr Wan Azizah binti Dr Wan Ismail emphasizes the importance of collaboration between private companies and government bodies. She highlights the need to break the silence and provide accessible knowledge to combat misinformation.
Libresse, a hygiene brand partnering with ATLAS Vending, shares the commitment to empowering women. They believe menstruation is a natural part of life and shouldn’t be a source of shame. Their educational campaigns aim to create a supportive environment where women can learn about their bodies and manage their periods confidently and with dignity.
This initiative is just the beginning. ATLAS Vending acknowledges the long road ahead in dismantling the stigma surrounding menstruation. They plan to expand the program, installing more machines across Malaysia to reach those most in need.
By combining innovative technology with social responsibility, ATLAS Vending is significantly impacting the lives of women and girls in Malaysia. Their collaboration with Libresse and government officials paves the way for a future where no woman is held back by period poverty.