Vaudine England, Jakarta – The fate of Kartini bin Karim acquires special symbolic importance today. Diplomatic efforts are under way to free the Indonesian migrant worker from a death sentence of stoning in the United Arab Emirates for alleged adultery.

The Indonesian Women's Solidarity for Human Rights said yesterday her case was typical of many Indonesian women. "Married and a mother of two, Kartini has chosen to fight her way out of perennial poverty by working overseas," the group said.

Kartini was also the name of an Indonesian regent's daughter during Dutch colonial rule who, through her letters home, outlined her dreams for better education. She died aged 25 a few days after giving birth to her first child.

A variety of myths have made the original Kartini a nationalist hero and feminist symbol. Today is a public holiday, known as Hari Kartini, dedicated to the memory of the turn-of-the-century hero.

The modern-day Kartini is one of 25,000 legal Indonesian migrant workers in the UAE. Unlike Filipino migrant workers, Indonesians who work abroad often have little awareness of their rights.

Kartini took a job as a domestic helper in February 1998. The following year, she became pregnant and her employers accused her of adultery. She was handed over to the local authorities and delivered her baby while in custody.

Since she was found guilty, Indonesia's Foreign Minister, Alwi Shihab, has promised action, sending officials to the emirates to try to have her freed.

Kartini's case has highlighted the plight of others, including Siti Zaenab Juhri who has been sentenced to be beheaded in Saudi Arabia for adultery.