Miss Indonesia Nadine Chandrawinata

A militant Islamic group in Indonesia has filed a police report against the country’s most beautiful woman, accusing her of indecency for having participated in the recent Miss Universe contest.

Nadine Chandrawinata, who has mixed Indonesian-German parentage, did not make it to the finals of the competition held in Los Angeles last July 23.

The Islamic Defenders Front said that her participation in the contest and display of her body in swimsuit was insulting for Indonesian dignity and women.

The group also filed complaints against people who sponsored Chandrawinata’s participation.

A government decree against participation in beauty contests was issued when strongman Suharto was president. The said law is still technically in effect in Indonesia although largely disregarded since Suharto was booted out in 1998.

Indonesia is the world’s most populous Muslim country.

Although most Indonesian Muslims are considered relatively moderate and the government is officially secular, hardline groups are becoming increasingly vocal and visible.

An 18-year-old from Puerto Rico Zuleyka Rivera Mendoza was crowned as Miss Universe 2006.

Kurara Chibana of Japan came in a first runner up. Chibana, who carried the impressive looking Samurai sword, won the award for best national costume.

Lia Andrea Ramos of Philippines was chosen most photogenic in an online vote by the public.