A plan to make female high school students undergo mandatory virginity tests has angered activists, who argue that it discriminates against women and violates their human rights.

Education chief Muhammad Rasyid, of Prabumulih district in south Sumatra proposed the idea, describing it as "an accurate way to protect children from prostitution and free sex," which would run on the city budget if approved.

"This is for their own good," Rasyid said. "Every woman has the right to virginity … we expect students not to commit negative acts."

The test would require female senior school students aged 16 to 19 to have their hymen examined every year until graduation. Boys would not be investigated for whether they had had sex.

Local and national MPs, activists, rights groups and even the local Islamic advisory council have all denounced Rasyid's plan.

theguardian.com