FOREIGN Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said he had been "misunderstood" over a proposal requiring women to obtain consent from their parents and employers to travel alone out of the country.

"There is some misunderstanding here. I was referring to underage boys and girls, those below the age of 21," Rais said during an official visit here.

"Women who are 21 and above are adult enough (to travel alone). But those under 21 are still subject to parental supervision.

"Therefore it is only fair that guidance be given. It need not necessarily be papers or letters of declaration... those are a big hindrance. They (children) should be guided.

"Why are your children going to Venezuela or Spain? Parents should know what their children are up to."
Rais' proposal had raised an outcry among women's groups, non-governmental organisations and bloggers, who called it an infringement of women's rights.

The proposal came in the wake of news that 119 Malaysians, 90 per cent of whom are women, are imprisoned worldwide on drug-related charges.

"I have good intentions for those travelling overseas but if this is regarded as going against human rights, wait until their (own) kids get into trouble," Rais added.