Indonesian government disagrees with plan to create local version of Playboy magazine

Indonesia's vice president said Friday the government "disagrees" with a plan to publish a local edition of Playboy magazine although the predominantly Muslim country's laws allow it. The plan to launch the magazine has triggered protests from Islamic groups in Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim nation. Publishers of the magazine said last week the Indonesian edition would respect Muslim values and not contain nudity.

"From the government point of view, we disagree with Playboy's publication," Vice President Yusuf Kalla said. "Playboy's entrance to Indonesia is made possible because our laws do not regulate such a matter." Vague laws in the Indonesian criminal code outlaw the distribution of "immoral" images.

The clauses are used when prosecuting distributors of pornography, which remains widely available. Magazines featuring photos of scantily clad women, including Indonesian versions of FHM and Maxim, are sold openly. Parliament is currently debating a set of laws that outlaw pornography more clearly.

Most Indonesians practice a moderate form of Islam, and many women shun standard Middle Eastern practices by not covering their heads and often dressing in tight-fitting clothing, reports the AP.

D.M.