MUI upset over widespread prostitution

MUI upset over widespread prostitution

SEMARANG: The Indonesian Ulemas Council (MUI) chapter in
Central Java expressed concern on Wednesday over the emergence of
widespread prostitution on the streets of almost every regency
and mayoralty in the province.

"The saddest thing is that all of them are practicing their
trade quite openly on the street, without any shame at all,"
sighed Sahal Mahfud, MUI chairman in Central Java.

He further expressed concern about the widespread distribution
of pornographic pictures through magazines and books.

"Television is also airing sexual and violent scenes. This is
one of the reasons why people easily commit indecent behavior,"
Sahal, who is also an NU leader, complained.

Religious leaders, as well as legislators and local officials,
have begun various programs to overcome the problem. "These
social diseases grow very fast and we have to stop them before
it's too late," councilor Soetoyo Abadi said. (har/edt)