Brothel closures bring problem

Brothel closures bring problem

SEMARANG: Following the recent closure of the two largest red-
light districts in the city, prostitutes roam the streets at
night, prompting worry over the spread of sexually transmitted
diseases.

Health activists have warned that the city could face serious
health problems unless the local government does something to
curb streetwalkers.

Soebowo, a health expert from Diponegoro University, said
yesterday that many panderer and prostitutes had leased hotel
rooms in which to entertain customers.

"The city will face widespread sexually transmitted diseases
unless the city government takes prompt measures to bring the
problem under control," he said.

The city closed down the infamous and huge Sunan Kuning and
Gambilangu brothels after being pressured by residents. The
health concern was triggered by the fact that the prostitutes
can no longer receive regular health services from the
government.

According to Subowo, a survey conducted in the brothels showed
that with regular health checks, the probability of contracting
sexually transmitted diseases was 10 percent.

"Now that the prostitutes are on their own, the rate could
reach as high as 25 percent," he said. (har)