A new trend has emerged in Indonesia, where women are entering into temporary marriages with foreign tourists, known as “pleasure marriages.”

This practice, which is illegal, has gained traction as many women seek financial support to alleviate economic struggles in their communities.

Reports indicate that these marriages, particularly prevalent in tourist areas like Puncak, allow women to receive a dowry in exchange for a short-term partnership.

Despite the illegality of such arrangements, enforcement is lax, enabling the industry to flourish, which raises significant ethical concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable women.

One woman, identified as Cahaya, shared her experience of marrying multiple tourists for financial stability.

She recounted harsh treatment by one of her husbands and highlighted the economic pressures that led her into this lifestyle.

Many women, like Cahaya, earn between $300 and $500 per marriage, which helps them support their families.

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The phenomenon has sparked debate about the morality of profiting from such arrangements, with critics emphasizing the need for better economic opportunities and education for women.

The issue has gained attention on social media, prompting discussions about the implications of these temporary unions on local communities and tourism.