Miss Universe severs ties with Indonesia and Malaysia organiser over sexual abuse allegations

The Miss Universe Organisation has cut ties with organisers of the Miss Universe Indonesia pageant, in addition to announcing the cancellation of the upcoming Miss Universe Malaysia.

The move comes after six contestants of the Miss Indonesia pageant alleged serious sexual harassment during the competition in Jakarta from July 29 to August 3.

In the police complaint, the victims claimed organisers conducted topless “body checks“, stressing the need to “examine any scars, cellulite or tattoos on their bodies” as the reason.

The alleged examinations apparently took place in a room with over 20 people, including men. Five of the contestants were photographed topless, according to their lawyer Mellisa Anggraeni.

“It has become clear “[Miss Universe Indonesia] franchise has not lived up to our brand standards, ethics or expectations,” Miss Universe posted on X, previously called Twitter.

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It apologised to the victims, while appreciating their bravery in speaking out and promising to do better in the future. No measurements are necessary to enter a Miss Universe pageant, it added.

Police are still examining surveillance footage, Hengki Haryadi, the Jakarta police director for general crimes, said, adding the victims will be interviewed and offered psychological help.