KUALA LUMPUR – The suggestion made by popular actor Datuk Rosyam Nor to establish legal brothels for foreign workers in Malaysia is deemed inappropriate, as it is thought to encourage immorality within Malaysian society.
Penang mufti Datuk Seri Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor said establishing a brothel is contrary to Malaysia’s position with Islam being the federal religion under the constitution.
Speaking to Sinar Harian, Was Salim said foreign workers should be informed about the matter and instead learn to respect the federal constitution and laws in the country that provide them the means to seek an income.
“I am very shocked with the suggestion from a Muslim actor to set up prostitution dens for foreign workers in the country. Such suggestions clearly serve to encourage immoral acts when most of the foreign workers are Muslims.
“Even non-Muslim workers should not be encouraged to commit such despicable acts.
“Indeed, no religion likes its followers to fall into this vile and destructive abyss,” he was quoted as saying.
Wan Salim said that all Muslims know that adultery is a very heinous crime because it can cause great damage to individuals, families and society.
“Because of that, the Quran strictly forbids adultery and considers it to be an abominable practice (fahisyah) and the worst path that humans take in this life.
“We should all help each other towards goodness and nobility of character. We should also remind foreign workers of the dangers of engaging in this heinous behaviour and the adverse effects on all parties,” he explained.
He also said that it would be very difficult for the authorities to ensure that Muslims are not involved in immorality if the actor’s recommendations were implemented.
“No one can guarantee that the people of this country, including Muslims, will not become customers of the proposed brothel. It is very difficult to control or prevent Muslims from getting involved in immorality.
“I agree that this proposal will not solve the issue but will invite more problems for Malaysia,” 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.
Rosyam, whose real name is Mohamed Noor Shamsuddin, 57, opined that the service can help reduce the increasing number of rape cases involving foreigners.
Worried about the situation, the actor hopes that the existence of brothels can at least deal with the increasing number of sexual crime cases in the country.
However, local activists have also slammed the veteran actor for his suggestion, deeming it “irresponsible”. – January 9, 2024