First Miss Timor Pageant Postponed Due to Controversy Provoked

,

Francisco Kabualdi and Isabel Ferreira. Hmmmmmm...

LUSA

Dili, 8 May 2013 - The first Miss Timor pageant since the restoration of independence of the country was postponed due to the controversy raised by womens’ rights organizations who consider it as a "discrimination against women". 

"It was to be held on the 24th, but after this controversy we have deferred it to June or July," said today the Minister of Tourism, Francisco Lay, whose ministry is responsible for organizing the event. 

According to the minister, the purpose of holding the Miss Timor event is to promote Timor-Leste abroad with the participation and winning of the Miss Universe pageant by a Timorese woman. 

This view is not shared by Rede Feto, umbrella organization for a group of 10 associations that promotes women's rights, and considers that as a "discrimination against women". 

In a press conference held on Tuesday, Rede Feto considered that that ministry should develop tourism infrastructure and not organize "beauty contests" that will create a stereotype of women. 

"On Tuesday, I went to parliament to explain the reason for holding the contest. The First lady, Isabel Ferreira, and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, have publicly expressed support for the contest," said Francisco Lay. 

The contest, which was to be held on May 24 as part of the 11th Anniversary of restoration of independence celebrations on 20 May, has, according to the minister, another goal, which is to train young Timorese women. 

"The girls will be elected after training and cultural activities to improve their general knowledge and knowledge of the country," he said. 

A meeting was scheduled between the Ministry of Tourism and Rede Feto to discuss the Miss Timor event is scheduled for next week. 

"It is time for young people to live happily like other young people around the world," blurted the minister, stressing that there were hundreds of entrants, but the young people began to withdraw because of controversy generated. 

.