The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has terminated its association with PT Capella Swastika Karya, the Indonesian franchise holder, following allegations of sexual harassment by several contestants just days before the Jakarta pageant's finale.

Accusations include claims that finalists were subjected to unexpected "body checks for scars and cellulite," with some contestants reporting being photographed topless.

In a statement, MUO expressed its disappointment that the Indonesian franchise failed to uphold its brand standards, ethics, and expectations.

MUO is also canceling this year's Miss Universe Malaysia, which is under the same franchise company, PT Capella Swastika Karya.

MUO praised the courage of the women who came forward with complaints and reiterated its commitment to providing a safe environment for participants.

The organization is reevaluating its policies to prevent similar incidents and emphasized that there are no specific body measurement requirements to participate in its pageants worldwide.

Miss Universe, a popular South-east Asian event, is known for producing regional celebrities and influencers. Owner Anne Jakrajutatip has aimed to make the pageant more inclusive by allowing married, transgender, and single mothers to compete.

Indonesia's Miss Universe representative for 2023, Fabienne Nicole Groeneveld, will still compete with MUO's support despite the controversy.

Poppy Capella, Indonesia's franchise director, denied any involvement in or condoning of violence or sexual harassment, emphasizing her stance against such behavior on Instagram.