REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- The existence of female representatives in parliament is one of most important things in national constitution. Former Secretary General of House of Representatives (DPR), Nining Indra Shaleh explained that the number rose from time to time.

"Female representatives in parliament continue to rise in two election periods, 2004 and 2009 following the law. Political parties must fulfill the 30 percent quota for women (both in the national and local parliaments, according to international agreement)," Shaleh said recently as reported by Mohammad Akbar.

With the increasing number of female representatives in parliament, women can provide their influences and contribute as decision makers at the House.

Political analyst, Siti Zuhro explained that female representatives in parliament in period of 2014-2019 would increase significantly up to 27 percent.

According to senior researcher from Indonesian Institute of Science (LIPI), although the number continues to rise, their performances in parliament are still not good caused the recruitment and regeneration process not maximum. A party only wants to meet the 30 percent quota and less selective in choosing candidates.

"In legislature, they have not provided yet the new breakthrough for women," Zuhro added.

In 2004-2009, Indonesia has 550 representatives in parliament with 61 female representatives, while in 2009-2014, DPR has 560 representatives with 101 female representatives or 18.04 percent.