KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says the persistent challenge of bribery is hindering efforts to eradicate prostitution and gambling centres in the country.
However, he said, the government, under the Federal Territories Ministry, had implemented rigorous measures since last year to combat these issues.
"Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), Dr Zaliha Mustafa, who has been tasked with this alongside the mayor, is addressing an issue that has been left unaddressed for a long time, including during previous governments.
"What is being discussed now is different from the current reality. Since last year, we have begun to take stringent action.
"I believe that if there are prostitution and illegal gambling dens, there must be elements of bribery involved," he told reporters at the Global Forum Madani 2024 here today.
This comes after neighbouring country, Indonesia, managed to close the Dolly area in Surabaya, which had long been rooted as the largest prostitution centre in Southeast Asia.
Recently, experts also cautioned that prostitution activities in the country must be halted immediately.
Crime analyst and criminologist Datuk Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim said a coordinated effort from all parties was essential for success.
He added it was disheartening that some individuals were willing to accept bribes from prostitution syndicates, effectively turning a blind eye to these activities.
Meanwhile, Dr Zaliha, also reportedly said that 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.
She said a new strategy needed 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."
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 (GRO) and prostitutes.
Subsequently, police have identified four locations around the capital that are being used as prostitution dens.