Miss Universe Indonesia Contestants Take a Stand Against Sexual Abuse
A series of disturbing allegations has recently shaken the Miss Universe Indonesia competition, as several contestants have come forward with police complaints against organizers, accusing them of sexual abuse. The accusations involve a deeply invasive and uncomfortable body check procedure that has left the contestants feeling violated and mentally distressed.
The troubling incident occurred just two days prior to the finals on August 3rd, when contestants were instructed to remove their tops for what organizers described as “body checks” and photographs. As per the complainants’ lawyer, the women were told that this procedure was necessary to examine their bodies for scars, cellulite, or tattoos.
“I feel that my rights have been violated,” expressed one of the contestants, speaking to the media alongside fellow complainants earlier this week.
The emotional toll has been immense, impacting the mental well-being of the contestants and leading to sleep troubles. To shield their identities, local television has blurred their faces in broadcasts.
Mellisa Anggraeni, a lawyer representing three of the contestants who filed complaints, has revealed that more individuals are likely to step forward with similar allegations.
In response, the police in Jakarta have issued a statement, expressing their intent to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
The Miss Universe Indonesia Organisation, in the spotlight due to these serious accusations, has announced its intention to investigate the allegations.
Poppy Capella, a celebrity and the owner of the organization, released a statement acknowledging the claims. Meanwhile, the global Miss Universe Organisation has also asserted its commitment to investigating the matter, stating that it treats allegations of sexual impropriety with utmost seriousness.
While body checks are customary in the country, the extent of the alleged actions has raised significant concerns. Maria Harfanti, a former Miss Indonesia, highlighted that while body checks are common, contestants are typically not required to disrobe. She further noted that organizers often request the contestants’ body mass index (BMI) to assess their body proportions.
During a press conference held on Monday, one of the complainants revealed that the body checks were conducted in a closed room.
However, unsettlingly, there were men present in the room, and the door was not entirely shut, allowing those outside to witness the proceedings.
Indonesia has a history of accommodating beauty pageants, with organizers being cautious not to offend conservative segments of society. Notably, the 2013 Miss World pageant refrained from including a bikini round when hosted in Indonesia, acknowledging the nation’s predominantly Muslim population.
Miss Universe, in its 73rd edition, has a strong following in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. The winners often achieve celebrity status and become influential figures on social media platforms.
The current owner of the Miss Universe brand, Anne Jakrajutatip, a Thai transgender woman and media mogul, has aimed to make the competition more inclusive. Her efforts have led to allowing married women, transgender women, and single mothers to participate, marking a significant step towards diversification within the pageant landscape.
