A disturbing practice in Indonesian villages has drawn widespread condemnation online. according to South China Morning PostYoung women from poor backgrounds are entering into short-term marriages with male tourists, mainly from the Middle East, in exchange for money. This phenomenon is prevalent in Puncak, a popular destination in western Indonesia that attracts Arab tourists. Many tourists are exploiting local women through temporary marriages arranged by agencies in the mountain resort of Kota Bunga.
In this arrangement, agencies introduce tourists to local women. Once both parties agree, they conduct a quick, informal marriage ceremony, after which the man pays a bride price to the woman. In return, the woman provides sexual and domestic services during the tourist’s stay. When the tourist leaves the marriage ends.
According to a report by Los Angeles TimesThis controversial practice, known as “pleasure marriage”, has emerged as a lucrative industry, boosting tourism and the local economy. Initially, family members or acquaintances facilitated introductions between tourists and local women. However, the growth of agencies specializing in these arrangements has institutionalized the practice.
Kahaya, a young woman from Indonesia, shared her harrowing experience as a temporary wife. he told LA Times That she has been married to Middle Eastern tourists more than 15 times. Her first husband, a 50-year-old Saudi Arabian man, paid $850 (Rs 71,412) as bride price, but after agents and officials took their share, he got only half. Five days after the wedding, the man moved back home and they were “divorced.” Kahaya revealed that she earns between $300 and $500 per wedding, barely enough to cover her rent and support her ailing grandparents.
Another woman, Nisa, broke free from this cycle after at least 20 temporary marriages. She met an Indonesian immigration officer, married him, and started a new life with two sons. Nyssa vows to never return to her past.
These temporary marriages, also called Nikah Mut’ah, are rooted in Shia Islam culture. However, most scholars have called such marriages ”unacceptable”. These temporary arrangements are also not recognized by Indonesian law, as they undermine the original purpose of marriage.
This practice raises serious concerns about exploitation of vulnerable women, sex tourism and lack of protection of women’s rights. Critics and people on the Internet have criticized the practice, arguing that it promotes human trafficking, abuse, and exploitation by taking advantage of poverty-stricken communities.
