'Regulated prostitution incompatible with Malaysia's cultural, religious values'

SHAH ALAM - A prominent cultural figure has voiced strong opposition to the proposal by actor Datuk Rosyam Nor to establish regulated prostitution services for foreign workers in Malaysia.

Datuk Dr Lim Swee Tin agreed with the Penang Mufti Datuk Seri Dr Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor, who previously condemned the idea as incompatible with Malaysia's cultural and religious values.

"The Mufti is correct. Malaysia cannot accept any practices that contradict the pure cultural values of the nation.

"It is shameful!

"I totally disagree with any provision of prostitution services for anyone or any party.

"By establishing such a centre, we are officially acknowledging prostitution as an important state affair," he told Sinar yesterday.

According to Swee Tin, the Rukun Negara explicitly portrays Malaysia as a country with noble values, emphasising decency and morality as the core moral values.

He stressed that while Malaysia welcomes foreign workers and values their contributions, their presence should not come at the expense of compromising the nation's ethical and moral standards.

"Who are these foreign workers so desperate for such sexual services?

"If they are only undocumented immigrants or job seekers who have lost their employers, why should their desires take precedence?

"Foreign workers should respect these core values and not exploit them.

"Before setting foot in Malaysia, they must consider the fact that the country prohibits such activities," he said.