The Condom Dilemma: Bali

I can recall for the first time seeing a condom machine installed in the toilets at Perth International Airport in Australia. I thought it was a great idea and had a crazy thought that the contents were for use when you were entering the mile-high club.

Now they are commonplace in airports and hotels worldwide. But how about in Bali?. A report in the Bali Discovery tells of the hard battle they are having on the island to get locals to use them. Initiated by Bali's Governor Made Beratha early in 2006, the installation of "ATM Kondom" or automated condom dispensers at various locations at tourist locations across the island was to help stem the spread of AIDS/HIV.

Fantastic idea considering the amount of amorous travellers seeking out partners for the duration of their holidays or even just for a one night fling. The idea of ATM Kondom has finally come to fruition and after much popular debate among the Balinese on the pros and cons of easier access to prophylactics and a fear that easier access to condoms might encourage sexual activity among under-age teenagers, Bali's first ATM Kondom was finally installed last week.

Surprisingly during the first week of its operation there were apparently no takers prepared to deposit Rp1,500 into the machine and choose one of the 5 varieties of condom on offer. Surely it is not a case of size or is it. Or was it the location?. Apparently, the decision by local officials to protect the morals of local youth by installing the machine in the lobby area of the Kuta Community Health Center (Puskesmas Kuta I) on Jalan Blambangan has also managed to discourage any local lads from braving the stares of the Centre's many employees to make a condom purchase.

Acknowledging that the installation of the ATM Kondom in the high-visibility Health Centre Lobby defeats the purpose of allowing anonymous purchases, a local Kuta community leader, I Made Sujana, has suggested that future machines should be installed in local hotels and villas.