In spite of our constant public education talks on rape, we, the women's groups, have obviously missed out on an important section of society. This is the public servants group, in particular the members of Parliament.

Jerai MP, Badruddin Amiruldin's statement as reported in the New Straits Times on April 16, in, indicates a total lack of understanding on the issues on rape .He was quoted as saying that 'Clothes can be indecent, too. That's why rapes happen. Clothes play a part when someone becomes a rape victim'.

To blame women on their attire just shows ignorance. As a member of Parliament, ignorance cannot be excused, especially when such statements are harmful and damaging as they perpetuate and cause a distorted view of the crime.

Rape is not prompted by provocative dress. Many teenagers in uniform have been raped. Women and young girls who have covered their 'aurat' have been raped. Women who wear long-sleeved blouses and long trousers have been victims of rape. Women in all forms of clothing, age, and sizes have been raped.

Rape has nothing to do with sex. It is not an 'over-spill' of sexual energy. It is not an impulsive crime. A high percentage of rapists are known to the victims, as friend or relatives. Are we to blame men? Of course most of us know the answer to this basic question. Not all men are rapists but the fact that men perpetuate the crime does implicate that the problem lies with them.

To even suggest that women are responsible is absurd. By suggesting that women provoke the attacks by their dressing, it shifts the blame to the victims rather than the rapists. Rape is a method to subjugate another through the use of power. Asserting authority over someone weaker and women are physically weaker in strength. It is combined with the lack of respect for women, whether by individuals or society. Why do we still allow women to be portrayed as sex objects through the media? Once again, the responsibility lies with the government to eradicate such views or portrayals. Perhaps censorship will be put to good use in such instances!

We demand a retraction of Badruddin's statement as it is insensitive and trivialises the very suffering and harrowing experiences experienced by rape survivors. Such statements reflect the deeply entrenched attitudes that rape is a woman's fault, thus discouraging more women from reporting.

Public servants should educate themselves on the dynamics of rape before voicing out their opinions. We encourage members of Parliament and political representatives, who represent the concerns of Malaysian citizens, to attend classes on issues on violence against women so that accurate and responsible statements can be made.

Women's groups are more than happy to lend our time and energy for this project. We realise that it is not an isolated view of one misinformed individual but many other political representatives have also made similar statements. We are more than willing to take this on.

The writer is president, Women's Aid Organisation .