College students resorting to prostitution to finance studies :Rep

KOTA KINABALU - A state assembly member has urged the Higher Education Ministry to investigate claims that some students of higher learning institutions (IPT) have resorted to prostitution to earn money to finance their studies.

Tanjung Batu assembly member Hamisa Samat said the ministry should view the matter seriously, saying it not only tarnished the image of such institutions but also affect the students' future.

"We hope that there will be prompt actions by the ministry because this issue has been raised before and now it has come to light again.

"The issue of IPT students resorting to prostitution should be addressed because if nothing is done, it could become worse," she said in a statement.

Prostitution to help meet rising costs

Upko wanita chief Dr Jaina Sintian revealed at the party's convention on Thursday in Kota Kinabalu that there were IPT students who resorted to prostitution to pay the cost of their studies.

She said that most of those involved in the activity were students from broken families.

Hamisa, who is Kalabakan Wanita Umno chief said if left unchecked, the problem could lead to other social issues such as baby dumping, HIV and Aids and drug abuse.

"I call on all quarters to be open minded about this and not hastily make denials because we all know the challenges these students have to deal with, like costly food, accommodation, transportation, books, computers, Internet bills and so on," she said.

- Bernama