When asked why prostitutes are moving to the heartlands, he sticks four fingers out as a way of explanation. Though prostitution is not encouraged in Singapore, it is legalised so authorities can better regulate it. To lessen the risk of deportation, prostitutes have now shifted to less visible areas, operating out of condominiums in Geylang or the HDB heartlands. By decentralising prostitution, it becomes more difficult for law enforcement personnel to monitor, contain and raid brothels.
Women who ply their trade are often from neighbouring China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand, while on tourist visas. Because they can only stay for no more than three months, many women want to earn as much as possible before they return. To edge out other girls, Daniel explains how prostitutes offer cut-throat rates.
Which one more worth it? With the constant rotation of girls and competitive prices, the supply often outweighs the demand. As a result, most girls only see each customer once, and streetwalkers have to move out of Geylang to make a profit. To save cost on rent, most girls prefer HDB apartments despite the added security in condominiums. On an average workday, a girl usually services four customers a night. Her earnings are dependent on her nationality, attractiveness, and services offered.
But the biggest advantage of moving to the HDB heartlands is moving right to the doorstep of their clients. By moving to the HDB heartlands, prostitutes have increased accessibility and privacy. Rather than going out of their way by making a trip to Geylang and risk being seen with a scantily clad lady on their arm, potential customers can pre-book appointments and head directly up to the HDB flats.
By moving to the HDB heartlands, Daniel also confirms how his favourite girl has seen a significant increase in numbers. The main reason why vice is moving to the HDB heartlands is that it makes for good business sense to bring their services to where the demand is greatest.
