Following regional autonomy reforms, local governments across dozens of provinces enacted strict dress codes. Public institutions—including state schools and civil service departments—widely interpreted national uniform guidelines as mandatory directives. This led to institutionalized pressure where millions of girls and female civil servants were compelled to veil. 2. Severe Psychological Distress and Bullying
Indonesian women face bullying for not wearing hijabs: rights group jilbab mesum 19 verified
Within Islamic circles, there is ongoing internal policing regarding what constitutes "proper" attire. The Jilbab Syar'i —a long, loose garment that covers the torso completely and avoids revealing the bodily silhouette—is promoted by conservatives as the only valid form of hijab. Women who wear tight clothing paired with a short headscarf are colloquially and derogatorily labeled "Jilboobs" (a portmanteau of jilbab and boobs), showcasing the intense societal scrutiny women face from both secular and religious factions. 10. Corporate and Employment Discrimination Women who wear tight clothing paired with a