Singapore’s iconic Orchard Towers, infamous for its nightlife and sex tourism, is facing a major crackdown. The authorities have set a deadline of July 31 for nightclubs to vacate the premises. However, this move threatens the livelihoods of workers and could potentially lead them into debt. Bryan Ong, who was raised in Singapore, has a personal connection to Orchard Towers. His father opened the nightclub Ipanema in the building in 1998, inspired by Brazil’s vibrant party scene. Orchard Towers, locally known as “Four Floors of Whores,” used to be a bustling hub of go-go bars, strip clubs, and discos. Although it has toned down significantly over the years, it still operates as an unofficial red-light district. The recent transformation of Orchard Towers into a neighborhood mall has left club owners and sex workers in a precarious position as their main source of income is threatened. Abe Isaac, the owner of Naughty Girl nightclub, has struggled to find an alternative venue and faces financial challenges. Sex workers, who found opportunities outside of the licensed brothels in Geylang, will also be severely affected. With the closure of nightclubs, their ability to earn a living will decline sharply, leaving them at risk of debt and poverty. Despite the challenges, some like Bryan Ong have managed to find new locations for their businesses, giving hope to the future of Singapore’s nightlife scene.
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