RI allowed to join Miss Universe

JAKARTA: The government gave the green light on Thursday for Indonesia's participation in the next Miss Universe contest as long as it promoted a good image of the country.

State Minister for Women's Empowerment Sri Redjeki Soemaryoto said the government would allow any kind of public efforts to boost the country's image. If joining the Miss Universe event could help, then it should be no problem, according to the minister.

"As long as it is conducted in accordance with Indonesia's customs, I do not see it as a problem. People could join the event," Sri told The Jakarta Post, after attending a Cabinet meeting.

"It is not a matter of whether or not the government would support it, but if it is good for the country's image we will allow it," she remarked.

Indonesia joined the Miss Universe contest in 1994, sending Miss Indonesia Indira Sudiro to the event. However, it sparked criticism from the government that resulted in the suspension of further participation.

A cosmetic manufacturer continued to sponsor the Miss Indonesia contest, but did not send an entrant to the Miss Universe pageant. A winner once took part only as a observer.-- JP