Ex-prostitute now helps others with HIV

Malaysian who runs JB shelter was forced into prostitution by her ex-husband at 35

Madam Rahayu Rahmat and her husband Rosli Ismail, who set up Sinar Sofia in 2011, with Singaporean volunteer and influencer Atikah Amalina. The organisation in Johor Baru helps drug addicts, sex workers and others with HIV, providing them with medica
Madam Rahayu Rahmat and her husband Rosli Ismail, who set up Sinar Sofia in 2011, with Singaporean volunteer and influencer Atikah Amalina. The organisation in Johor Baru helps drug addicts, sex workers and others with HIV, providing them with medical and employment support. PHOTO: ATIKAH AMALINA
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Madam Rahayu Rahmat did not suspect anything when her former husband asked her to dress up to meet a friend 13 years ago.

However, when they arrived at a nondescript building in Johor Baru, she sensed something was amiss.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on June 10, 2018, with the headline Ex-prostitute now helps others with HIV. Subscribe