Are Physical Standards in Indonesia Considered Too Strict? Here’s the Story of a Local Model Who is Valued Worldwide

Kapanlagi.com - At the beginning of 2025, the Indonesian online world is buzzing with the inspirational story of Raihan Fahrizal, a male model from Bandung who has successfully penetrated the international fashion industry. Raihan has become a hot topic after appearing on prestigious catwalks.

He represents world-renowned fashion houses such as Yves Saint Laurent (YSL), Louis Vuitton, and Hermès. His international career has skyrocketed, even though he was previously rejected multiple times by domestic modeling agencies on the grounds that his body was too thin and did not meet 'local standards'.

1. Public Criticism

The story of Raihan went viral after he posted his experience on social media. Many netizens sympathized and harshly criticized the rigid appearance standards in the Indonesian modeling industry.

One public figure who spoke out is Melly Goeslaw. Through her Instagram account, Melly lamented that the local industry is not yet inclusive enough and instead rejects authentic Indonesian talent that is eventually recognized by the world.

2. Experiencing Rejection

Raihan Fahrizal © instagram.com/raihanfahrizal__

However, Raihan is not the only example of this phenomenon. Previously, there was the name Laras Sekar, an Indonesian model who initially struggled to break into the local market because her face and appearance were considered too exotic. Instead, Laras was eventually contracted by foreign agencies and appeared in advertising campaigns for brands like Balenciaga and Alexander McQueen.

A similar story comes from Shahnaz Indira. Her plus-size body and exotic skin can be said to be far from the beauty standards in Indonesia. She became the first plus-size model from Indonesia at London Fashion Week through the Simone Rocha Spring 2023 collection. Her journey continued as she appeared at New York Fashion Week showcasing the Coach Fall 2025 collection.

3. Diversity and Uniqueness

Laras Sekar © instagram.com/larasekar

The factors supporting the success of these models on the international stage are not just luck, but also a strong personal branding strategy, consistency in building a portfolio, and a more visionary network of foreign agencies.

The global modeling industry is indeed starting to move away from traditional physical stereotypes and is focusing more on uniqueness and diversity of faces. According to a report by Business of Fashion, international agencies are now intentionally seeking facial characters that 'tell a story' and are not generic, including from Southeast Asia.

4. Too Fixated

Shahnaz Indira © instagram.com/shahnaz.indira

Returning to Melly Goeslaw's statement, she is not just criticizing the standards of being skinny or tall, but also pointing out how Indonesia is too fixated on one type of ideal beauty that includes fair skin, proportional body, and Western-standard faces.

In fact, abroad, models with various body shapes, skin colors, and cultural expressions are considered assets that enrich fashion campaigns. Melly advocates for the domestic industry to be more adaptive and open so that it does not continue to lose potential talent.

5. Influenced by Mainstream Media

Upon closer inspection, the standards of beauty in Indonesia are indeed still heavily influenced by mainstream media and commercial advertisements. Many local brands continue to showcase a homogeneous figure: white, slim, and a clean look.

In contrast to the global stage, which is increasingly adopting diversity and inclusivity, in terms of race, gender, and cultural expression. The hope for the future is that Indonesia can become a fertile ground for local talent, without having to wait for them to be recognized by the world first.

(kpl/tdr)