KUALA LUMPUR – Local activists have slammed veteran actor Datuk Rosyam Nor for proposing the legalisation of prostitution dens that cater to foreign workers, deeming it “irresponsible.”
Social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye suggested that Rosyam’s opinion should be reserved for private discussions or “coffee talk among friends,” rather than being shared publicly.
“While everyone has the right to express their opinion, I believe this matter should be discussed in private or among friends. Making such statements to a wide audience is inappropriate, especially coming from a well-known figure,” he said.
“As a public figure, he should be aware of the potential effects and implications of every spoken word.”
Asked about the prostitution issue, Lee insisted that it contradicts the moral values upheld by Eastern societies.
Meanwhile, social activist, Datuk Mohammad Shatar Sabran, stressed the importance of respecting the laws established by the government, including those pertaining to illegal prostitution activities in Malaysia.
Shatar said normalising prostitution dens, even for the fulfilment of foreign workers’ sexual needs, goes against the existing laws and societal norms in Malaysia.
“All countries have their own legislation, and in the context of Malaysia, prostitution is illegal due to societal norms. Even if exclusively for foreign workers, legalising it would be inappropriate and disrespectful to our country’s laws,” he said
“Similarly, when we are in other countries like Singapore, we abide by their laws, such as refraining from chewing gum. It’s a matter of respecting the laws of the land.”
Shatar said that foreign workers, regardless of their situation, must respect the laws of the host country, and violating these laws, including engaging in rape, would lead to appropriate legal consequences.
“As individuals from other countries, they cannot use the excuse of satisfying their needs to commit crimes. If they engage in rape, they will face the legal consequences according to our country’s laws,” he added.
Rosyam had earlier shared his personal opinion on prostitution dens in the country, arguing that such services could potentially reduce the incidence of rape involving foreign workers.
In response, rapper and social media influencer Caprice said that as a Muslim, the suggestion of establishing prostitution dens should not be given prominence.
“No matter the circumstances, if the wives of foreign workers in countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar want to fulfil their needs, there are alternatives that do not involve engaging in prostitution.
“If they return to their home countries infected with HIV, it will pose a significant problem.” – January 8, 2024