Marcel Radhival's actions, better known as the Red Magician (Pesulap Merah), have once again drawn public attention after his visit to Mount Kawi triggered a strong reaction from a local caretaker. This controversy no longer focuses on the debate over pesugihan (wealth ritual) practices, but rather on the ethics of content creation in the sacred area.
Agus, as a caretaker (kuncen) at Mount Kawi, expressed objection to the way the Red Magician produced video content. He assessed that the actions did not reflect a respectful attitude toward a location that upholds religious values. In a conversation on the Jejak Backpacker YouTube podcast, Agus openly stated that the actions were inappropriate and violated local ethics of politeness.
Furthermore, Agus emphasized the importance of maintaining proper etiquette for every visitor entering special areas on Mount Kawi. According to him, there is a procedure requiring permission from the management that must be adhered to as a form of respect. He regretted the disregard for unwritten rules that have long been maintained by the local community.
On the other hand, Agus sought to clarify public misconceptions that often associate Mount Kawi solely with the issue of pesugihan. He stressed that the area is a pluralistic center of worship for five official religions. The presence of a musalla (Islamic prayer room), church, vihara, Chinese temple (klenteng), and Hindu temple (pura) serves as clear evidence of the area's religious function.
Agus hopes this explanation will shift public perception so that Mount Kawi is no longer simplified as merely a location for mystical practices. He emphasized that the worship facilities available there are intended for positive prayer and worship activities, far from any concept of pesugihan that has circulated among the public.
