Malaysian City Mulls STD Screening for Foreign Masseuses

The Borneo city of Miri is considering requiring all foreign masseuses to undergo mandatory screening for STDs. The Star newspaper reported that the proposal was made following the revelation that several foreign women working in massage parlors had tested positive for HIV. The policy would require masseuses to undergo blood tests every six months. "Foot massage centers are mushrooming all over our city," said Mayor Lawrence Lai. "There are those that are licensed, but there are also many operating illegally. [We're] very worried that these places may become centers for spreading [STDs]." In addition, surprise inspections will help authorities identify undocumented workers and unlicensed operators, Lai said. Increasingly, complaints suggest more of the businesses are offering sexual services.

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