Miss Universe cuts ties with Indonesia chapter after harassment allegations

WASHINGTON: The Miss Universe Organisation has cut ties with its Indonesia franchise, it announced days after allegations of sexual harassment, and will cancel an upcoming Malaysia edition.

In the complaint, more than a half dozen women said all 30 finalists for Miss Universe Indonesia were unexpectedly asked to strip for a supposed body check for scars and cellulite two days before the pageant´s crowning ceremony in Jakarta.

Their lawyer said on Tuesday that five of the women had their pictures taken. “In light of what we have learned took place at Miss Universe Indonesia, it has become clear that this franchise has not lived up to our brand standards, ethics, or expectations,” the US-based Miss Universe Organisation posted on Saturday night on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter. It said that it had “decided to terminate the relationship with its current franchise in Indonesia, PT Capella Swastika Karya, and its National Director, Poppy Capella.”

It thanked the contestants for their bravery in coming forward and added that “providing a safe place for women” was the organization´s priority. Jakarta police spokesman Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko said on Tuesday that an investigation into the women´s complaint has been launched.

The Indonesia franchise also holds the license for Miss Universe Malaysia, where there will no longer be a competition this year, according to the New York-based parent organizer. In a lengthy statement posted to Instagram, Indonesia franchise director Capella denied involvement in any body checks.