Miss Universe Ends Ties with Indonesia Franchise

The Miss Universe Organization has decided to sever its association with the Indonesian franchise due to allegations of sexual harassment. Several women have accused Miss Universe Indonesia of subjecting them to topless “body checks” for skin imperfections and cellulite. The allegations have prompted an investigation by Indonesian authorities. The organization declared that the Indonesia franchise and its National Director will no longer be associated with Miss Universe. The accusations have also led to the cancellation of the Miss Universe Malaysia contest, which was overseen by the Indonesian franchise.

Poppy Capella, the Indonesia franchise director, denied the allegations in an Instagram post, stating that she had no involvement in or knowledge of any violence or sexual harassment during the organization of Miss Universe 2023. Fabienne Nicole Groeneveld, this year’s Miss Indonesia, is still set to compete in the global Miss Universe competition in El Salvador in November. Each year, Indonesian women participate in the Miss Universe contest to become the national representative.

-Re-reported from the article originally published in DW English