KUALA LUMPUR: Prostitution activities in the country must be halted immediately, experts cautioned.
Crime analyst and criminologist Datuk Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim said a coordinated effort from all parties is essential for success.
"We need to put an end to this 'dark and vile' economy," he told Skuad Khas Harian Metro.
Shahul Hamid said officially, prostitution has long been prohibited in the country.
"However, it is no longer a secret that these immoral activities are occurring. Some areas, like Pudu and certain streets such as Lorong Haji Taib, are even recognised as prostitution hotspots.
"Taking action (to tackle this issue) requires the involvement of all parties, including the Prime Minister and the Home Affairs, Federal Territories and Religious Affairs ministers.
"They should be working closely with agencies like the police, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and local authorities," he said.
He added is was disheartening that some individuals are willing to accept bribes from prostitution syndicates, effectively turning a blind eye to these activities.
"We must not let prostitution run rampant. The workers are often replaced, with those 'retired' being substituted by younger individuals," he said.
Harian Metro previously exposed that some prostitutes were soliciting clients at food courts on Jalan Gelang and Jalan Kalong.
Following this, the Anti-Vice, Gambling and Secret Societies Division (D7) of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Bukit Aman raided the locations and arrested 27 individuals, including guest relations officers (GROs) and prostitutes.
Subsequently, police have identified four locations around the capital that are being used as prostitution dens.
City police chief Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said among the identified locations were Jalan Petaling, Jalan Gelang, and Jalan Pudu.
A security analyst from the National Defence University (UPNM), Prof Dr Mohd Mizan Mohd Aslam said Malaysia is capable of shutting down prostitution hotspots.
"Indonesia managed to close down the Dolly area in Surabaya, which was long established as Southeast Asia's largest prostitution centre.
"Therefore, it is not impossible for Malaysia to do the same," he said.
The issue of prostitution in Kuala Lumpur, highlighted by Harian Metro, also caught the attention of the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
She reportedly said further discussions would be held to expand the terms of reference for the 'KL Strike Force' in efforts to ensure the harmony and well-being of the city's residents.
Zaliha said a new strategy needs to be studied and reviewed in any area reported and identified as a site of prostitution activities.
"Transforming the appearance and image of these areas can be carried out through urban renewal programmes by enhancing safety features, livability, and economic viability."