Bus station sex not what it seems

PURWOKERTO, Central Java (JP): Local officials here are upset and amazed that the number of transvestites roaming the town has jumped from 40 to 120 in the past five months.

But it's not the fact that more than 90 percent of the transvestites come from other areas that upsets them.

They are aghast by their recent survey which found that almost 80 percent of the transvestites offered oral sex in public places, notably at the bus terminal.

"Yes, nearly 80 percent of them are doing that taboo act," said Ning Hidayati, the head of the Banyumas regency social affairs office when reporters cross-checked the report with her.

To prove that the government was paying more than just lip service to the problem, Ning called a meeting with some of the transvestites in which she offered them vocational training programs, such as hairdressing.

"They are enthusiastic about the idea," the excited Ning exclaimed.

Lisda, one of the transvestites' delegates at the meeting, said she was convinced Ning was not lying.

"We are grateful (about the program). Hopefully we can now expect the town's law and order officers not to chase us around any longer?" Lisda said in a hoarse masculine voice. (45/pan)