Miss Universe cuts ties with Indonesia organiser accused of sexual harassment
- The US-based organisation has decided to sever its contract with PT Capella Swastika Karya and its national director Poppy Capella, who also holds the licence for Miss Universe Malaysia
- Poppy Capella insists she does not condone any form of sexual harassment, following complaints by six contestants they were subjected to topless ‘body checks’
The Miss Universe Organization said it was cutting ties with its Indonesian franchisee and cancelling this year’s Malaysia pageant after contestants accused local organisers of sexual harassment.
The US-based organisation said in an emailed statement late on Saturday it had decided to sever its contract with PT Capella Swastika Karya and its national director Poppy Capella, who also holds the licence for Miss Universe Malaysia.
Six Miss Universe Indonesia contestants filed complaints with police accusing organisers of sexual harassment, saying they were subjected to topless “body checks”, their lawyer said 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 said, adding that providing a safe place for women was its utmost priority.
Jakarta police did not respond to a request for comment on Sunday. Spokesperson Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko said on Tuesday the report would be investigated.
The Indonesia franchise also holds the licence for Miss Universe Malaysia, where there will no longer be a competition this year, according to the New York-based parent organiser.
Capella said in a statement on Instagram she does not condone any form of sexual harassment.
