Miss Universe Indonesia responds to sexual harassment allegations
The Miss Universe Indonesia Organization has issued a statement in response to allegations of sexual harassment following the recently held Miss Universe Indonesia 2023 competition.
"In response to media coverage about the incidents at the Miss Universe Indonesia pageant, we at Miss Universe Indonesia are closely monitoring the situation," said the national director and owner Poppy Capella.
"We are actively investigating the allegations that have been reported in the mass media. We will conduct a [thorough] investigation and review the allegations made against us."
According to Reuters, several contestants have filed a police report against the organizers after they allegedly underwent a physical examination in their underwear and were photographed "topless" in a room with more than 20 people.
Meanwhile, the Miss Universe Organization said they have recently been made aware of the allegations concerning their Indonesian franchisee.
"Miss Universe takes allegations of sexual abuse and impropriety extremely seriously. Providing a safe place for women is the Miss Universe Organization's utmost priority, and we are looking into this matter."
Photo: Miss Universe Indonesia