Six contestants of Miss Universe Indonesia have lodged complaints with the police against the organizers of the pageant, alleging sexual harassment.
The contestants claim that they were subjected to topless "body checks" and were asked to strip down to their underwear for physical examinations in a room filled with more than 20 men and women.
According to their lawyer, Mellisa Anggraeni, the female contestants also allege that they were photographed topless and asked to pose inappropriately, including by opening their legs.
At a press conference broadcast by news channel Kompas TV, one of the contestants expressed her discomfort, stating, "I felt like I was being peeked on, I was very confused and uncomfortable." The Miss Universe Organization, which has been running the pageant since 1952, has responded to the allegations, stating, "Miss Universe takes allegations of sexual abuse and impropriety extremely seriously. Providing a safe place for women is the Miss Universe Organizations utmost priority, and we are looking into this matter."
It is worth noting that Indonesia, with its large Muslim population, has previously raised objections to beauty contests. In October 2022, the Miss Universe Organization was purchased by Thai celebrity media tycoon and transgender rights advocate Jakapong "Anne" Jakrajutatip. As a transgender woman, Jakrajutatip has faced criticism for her ownership of the organization. Some have argued that it contradicts the notion of female empowerment, while others have questioned the celebration of feminism when the owner is biologically male.
In recent years, transgender women have made significant strides in beauty pageants. Last month, Rikkie Valerie Kolle, a transgender woman, won the Miss Universe Netherlands competition. Kolle expressed her joy and pride in an Instagram statement, stating, "I DID IT... Making my community proud and showing it can be done." Similarly, in 2021, Kataluna Enriquez became the first transgender woman to win the title of Miss Nevada USA, and in 2012, Jenna Talackova became one of the first transgender competitors in a Miss Universe competition.
The allegations of sexual harassment in the Miss Universe Indonesia pageant highlight the importance of providing a safe and respectful environment for all participants.
The Miss Universe Organization's commitment to investigating the matter demonstrates its dedication to addressing such issues. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to ensure that the voices of the contestants are heard and that appropriate action is taken to prevent future incidents.
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