JAKARTA ~ A primary school in East Java has designated areas for students and teachers to spit in an attempt to contain the unhygienic but popular habit, reports said.

Spittoons and tissues would be provided for those using the four spitting areas at the school in East Java province.

Similar to the concept of designated smoking rooms, the spitting areas were an attempt to ensure non-spitters were unaffected by the habit, reports said.

“This program is for all elements within the school environment,” said Sudar Ardiansyah, principal of the Islamic school.

Those caught spitting in unofficial areas would pick up rubbish in the school as punishment, while repeat offenders would have their parents summoned to the school.