Aayush Pathak
A troubling trend has emerged in several Indonesian villages, where women are increasingly becoming temporary wives for male tourists in exchange for a bride price. This practice, known as “pleasure marriage,” has raised significant concerns and condemnation online, as it highlights the intersection of economic desperation and exploitation.
The Rise of Pleasure Marriages
According to reports from the Los Angeles Times, pleasure marriages have evolved into a thriving industry that boosts local tourism and the economy. Yayan Sopyan, a professor in Islamic family law at Syarif Hidayatullah Islamic State University in Jakarta, noted that many village women are turning to this practice as a means of survival amid poor economic prospects. “We see now this practice is expanding,” he stated. “Tourism meets this economic need.”
In earlier times, families often pressured young women into these temporary arrangements. However, the emergence of brokers and agencies has transformed pleasure marriages into a more institutionalized operation, facilitating connections between local women and foreign tourists.
Personal Stories: The Reality Behind Pleasure Marriages
One such woman, referred to as Cahaya (name changed), shared her experience with the LA Times. Having entered this profession at 17, she recounted her first marriage to a man in his 50s from Saudi Arabia for a dowry of $850. Over the years, she has been married 15 times, often feeling trapped in a cycle she could not escape.
Cahaya attempted to flee multiple times but ultimately reached out for help from Budi Priana, who had initially introduced her to the broker. His intervention with the Saudi Embassy eventually led to her return home after a harrowing experience that included a suicide attempt.
Priana clarified that he does not consider himself a broker but rather acts as a liaison between desperate women seeking work and willing tourists. “There are always new girls contacting me looking for contract marriages,” he explained. “The economy is getting worse, and they are so desperate to get jobs.” This sentiment reflects the broader economic challenges faced by many in these communities.
Legal Implications and Lack of Enforcement
Despite being illegal under Indonesian law—similar to prostitution—pleasure marriages continue to thrive due to lax enforcement of these laws. This lack of regulation has allowed the practice to flourish unchecked, raising ethical questions about the rights and protections afforded to women involved.
It is important to note that not all arrangements involve sexual relations; some tourists seek companionship or domestic help instead. Cahaya herself mentioned that her first marriage involved performing household chores rather than any intimate relationship.
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