Jakarta – The State Ministry for Women's Empowerment invited public figures Thursday to evaluate the revised draft of the Pornography Bill, which has stirred debate among women's rights activists since it was first issued in 2006.

Artists and activists attending the discussion said they feared that the bill, which "allows pornography" in art shows, religious ceremonies and education, would trigger cultural degradation and legalize the repression of women.

"I wish to express my rejection of such a low and discriminating regulation, which proves nothing but the narrow-mindedness of the members of the House of Representatives. This 20-page long document discriminates against women," said Ratna Sarumpaet, a leading professional artist and activist.

Meutia Hatta, the minister for women's empowerment, agreed that the bill was "far from serving its purpose" and requested written input from public figures, especially on formulating an appropriate definition of "pornography", which the draft has failed to provide. (lva)