The Miss Universe Organization stated it was reducing ties with its Indonesian franchisee and cancelling this yr’s Malaysia pageant after contestants accused native organisers of sexual harassment. The U.S.-based organisation stated in an emailed assertion late on Saturday it had determined to sever its contract with PT Capella Swastika Karya and its nationwide director Poppy Capella, who additionally holds the license for Miss Universe Malaysia.

Six Miss Universe Indonesia contestants filed complaints with police accusing organisers of sexual harassment, saying they had been subjected to topless “body checks”, their lawyer stated on Tuesday. “It has become clear that this franchise has not lived up to our brand standards, ethics, or expectations as outlined in our franchise handbook and code of conduct,” the Miss Universe Organization stated, including that offering a secure place for ladies was its utmost precedence.

Jakarta police didn’t reply to a request for touch upon Sunday. Spokesperson Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko stated on Tuesday the report can be investigated. Capella stated in an announcement on Instagram she doesn’t condone any type of sexual harassment.

“I emphasise that I, as the national director and license owner for Miss Universe Indonesia, was not involved at all and have never known, ordered, requested or allowed anyone who plays a role and participated in the process of organising Miss Universe Indonesia 2023 to commit sexual harassment through body checking as reported,” she stated. The Jakarta contest was held to pick Indonesia’s entry for the annual Miss Universe competitors, to be held in El Salvador late this yr.

The Miss Universe Organization stated it was evaluating its insurance policies and procedures to keep away from comparable prevalence sooner or later, including that there aren’t any measurement or physique dimensions requirement to hitch their pageant worldwide.

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