Contestant Merince Kogoya Removed After Viral Video Sparks Outcry
Merince Kogoya, a contestant in the Miss Indonesia 2025 pageant, has been disqualified following the resurfacing of a two-year-old video in which she is seen endorsing Israel. The clip, which shows her dancing while waving an Israeli flag, ignited a firestorm of controversy in Indonesia—a country with strong pro-Palestinian sentiment and no formal diplomatic ties with Israel.
Video Taken While Studying Overseas
Kogoya, representing Highland Papua, was disqualified during the pageant’s quarantine phase after the video went viral on social media. In the footage—reportedly filmed while she was studying abroad—Kogoya is seen holding the Israeli flag with a caption that translates to:
“Diligent for Sion, loyal to Jerusalem, standing for Israel.”
Her actions drew swift and widespread criticism, with users on Indonesian platforms accusing her of being insensitive to the country’s political stance and public sentiment.
Indonesia’s Strong Pro-Palestinian Stance
Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, has historically shown unwavering support for Palestine. The country does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel and frequently sees mass pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
President Prabowo Subianto, speaking in May 2025, reaffirmed the government’s position, stating:
“Indonesia would consider establishing diplomatic ties with Israel once it recognizes Palestine.”
Miss Papua Pegunungan Merince Kogoya was disqualified from Miss Indonesia 2025 due to her advocacy for Israel. pic.twitter.com/In8HIh5XKE
As of now, the organizers of Miss Indonesia 2025 have not released an official statement regarding Kogoya’s disqualification or the public reaction to the video.
