The Mount Kawi religious tourism area in Malang Regency, East Java, has recently returned to the public spotlight on social media following the emergence of various narratives regarding pesugihan practices. Responding to the growing stigma, the local management and caretaker finally spoke out to clarify public perception.
Agus, one of the caretakers of Mount Kawi, emphasized that the spiritual area was actually established as a gathering place to offer prayers to Almighty God. He regretted public opinion, which often simplifies visitors' spiritual activities into mystical rituals for instant wealth.
According to Agus's explanation, praying for smooth sustenance and business success is natural in any religious teaching. However, because of the deeply ingrained negative image, every visit from various groups—ranging from the general public, business owners, state officials, to public figures—is always mistakenly associated with pesugihan practices.
Furthermore, he explained that the success achieved by pilgrims after their visit is the result of their sincere prayers and hard work, not an alliance with mystical powers. Mount Kawi is chosen by pilgrims simply because of its calm and peaceful atmosphere, which is considered highly conducive to solemnity in worship.
