MUI deputy secretary-general Amirsyah Tambunan told reporters at a press conference on Monday that the government should continue to allow female circumcision, calling it a constitutional right."Circumcision is a part of the Islamic teachings that were recommended for Muslims, both male and female," Amrisyah said at MUI headquarters as quoted by Antara news agency. "The MUI and Islamic organisations in the country firmly stand against any efforts to ban female circumcision."
Female circumcision performed by licensed doctors, nurses or midwives was legalised by a Health Ministry rule issued in 2010 that defined the practice as "incising the skin that covers the front part of the clitoris, without harming the clitoris".
Last month, the UN approved a non-binding resolution urging its 193 member states to enforce legislation prohibiting female genital mutilation.
According to the World Health Organisation, female genital mutilation can cause urination problems, severe bleeding and complications during childbirth.
In Indonesia the practice ranges from symbolic -- a small tap with a bamboo stick -- to slicing the clitoris off with scissors.
The National Commission on Violence against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has consistently urged that the 2010 ministerial regulation be revoked, claiming it violated women's reproductive rights.