A Hidden Industry
In the picturesque Indonesian village of Puncak, a disturbing practice has emerged that has sparked widespread condemnation. Young women from impoverished families are engaging in short-term marriages with male tourists, primarily from the Middle East, in exchange for money. These arrangements, known as “pleasure marriages,” have become a lucrative industry, bolstering tourism and the local economy.
How It Works
The process is simple yet exploitative. Women from low-income backgrounds are introduced to tourists by family members, friends, or specialized agencies. After a brief, informal wedding ceremony, the woman receives a bride price. In return, she provides domestic and sexual services during the tourist’s stay. Once the visitor departs, the marriage is dissolved.
Personal Accounts
Cahaya, a 28-year-old Indonesian woman, shared her harrowing experiences as a temporary wife. She revealed that she has been married to Middle Eastern tourists over fifteen times. Driven by financial desperation, she has endured multiple marriages, often earning barely enough to support her family. Another woman, Nisa, managed to escape this cycle after marrying an Indonesian immigration officer.
Concerns and Controversies
This practice raises serious concerns about the exploitation of women, sex tourism, and the violation of women’s rights. While pleasure marriages (nikah mut’ah) have their roots in Shia Islam, most scholars consider them “unacceptable.” Moreover, these temporary arrangements are not recognized by Indonesian law, which sets a minimum age of 19 for marriage. Critics argue that this practice perpetuates human trafficking, abuse, and exploitation, taking advantage of vulnerable women and communities.
