Saturday July 29, 2006
HIV-positive GROs
KUANTAN: Irresponsible nightspot operators here are hiring HIV-positive guest relations officers, an Umno Youth leader alleged.
Kuantan division chief Mohamed Suffian Awang said there were at least three HIV-positive GROs working “somewhere here.”
He said he obtained the information from the Pahang state health authorities.
He added, however, that due to the nature of the matter, he could not divulge details of those involved.
Mohamed Suffian, who is a Kuantan municipal councillor, told The Star yesterday: “This is privileged information, which I brought to the attention of the local council during a recent full-board meeting.
“What worries me is that the number of those inflicted with HIV or AIDS may be higher than expected.
“Worse, they are working in a service industry which encourages close and personal contact with the public.”
He said he was upset that unscrupulous operators were employing such people.
“By right, those who work in the services industry such as eateries, entertainment centres and barber shops, must possess a health card to certify they are fit for work and free from any sickness,” said Mohamed Suffian.
“I have proposed that stern action be taken against operators who put the health of their clients at risk,” he said, adding that at the moment those found guilty of hiring workers without a health card could be fined RM80 and could even appeal for a reduction.
Mohamed Suffian said those who know they are carrying the deadly AIDS virus should stop doing any work that requires physical contact.
“There are many job opportunities, such as being a telephonist or receptionist,” he said, adding that he was not against them earning a living, but it should preferably be a job that did not put the public at risk.
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