The Miss Universe Organisation has announced that it is severing ties with its Indonesia franchise amidst allegations of sexual harassment. As a result, the organisation will be cancelling the upcoming Miss Universe Malaysia edition. These decisions were made after several women complained that all 30 finalists for Miss Universe Indonesia were unexpectedly asked to strip for a supposed body check for scars and cellulite just two days prior to the pageant’s crowning ceremony in Jakarta. It has been revealed that pictures were taken of five of the women, further exacerbating the situation.
The US-based Miss Universe Organisation expressed its disappointment and stated that the franchise in Indonesia, PT Capella Swastika Karya, and its National Director, Poppy Capella, had failed to meet the organisation’s standards, ethics, and expectations. It emphasized its dedication to providing a safe environment for women and thanked the courageous contestants who came forward with their experiences.
The Jakarta police have launched an investigation into the complaint made by the women. In the meantime, Miss Universe has assured Fabienne Nicole Groeneveld, the winner of Miss Universe Indonesia, that they will make the necessary arrangements for her to compete in the finale scheduled for November in El Salvador.
In response to these allegations, Indonesia franchise director Capella denied any involvement in the body checks and expressed her opposition to any form of violence or harassment. She claimed that she was not aware of, nor did she condone, the mistreatment of the contestants during the Miss Universe Indonesia 2023 pageant.
In addition to the harassment allegations, this year’s Indonesia pageant faced criticism for eliminating the minimum height requirement after crowning a winner. The Miss Universe Organisation clarified that height, weight, and body dimensions are not prerequisites to participate in Miss Universe pageants worldwide.
As the Miss Universe Organisation cuts ties with its Indonesia franchise and emphasizes its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful atmosphere for all participants, it sets a precedent for addressing sexual harassment within the pageant industry.