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)