IT certainly projects a less than desirable image for Penang to become a hub for commercial gay sex services: “Police: Penang a gay sex services hub (The Star, March 15).
However, it was then reported that such gay sex activities at health clubs in Penang seem to have ceased following the recent police crackdown: “Cops to continue monitoring organisers of illicit gay activities” (The Star, March 19). The two news reports are conflicting.
Society seems to have misunderstood many issues pertaining to gay activities.
Lesbians, bisexuals, gays and transvestites are often targets of prejudice and ridicule. Growing conservatism will make this minority group fearful and remain largely underground.
It is about time that issues such as homosexuality, transsexuality, bisexuality and HIV be openly discussed with proper guidance.
We already have a draconian law in section 377 of the Penal Code which criminalises homosexual activities. Having such laws will do little in preventing HIV infections.
This ancient law may have been enacted as a discrimination against same-sex encounters. We must evolve to become a society where people must not discriminate against lesbians, bisexual, gays and transsexuals.
Their rights must be upheld and respected. We must be sensitive to their needs. Maybe repealing section 377 of the Penal Code could be the first small step.
NG SHU TSUNG,
Kuala Lumpur.
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