The Mount Kawi area is currently in the public spotlight following narratives circulating on social media linking the pilgrimage site to the practice of pesugihan (wealth rituals). In response to the growing polemic, the management of Mount Kawi religious tourism finally provided an official clarification to set public perception straight.
Through a statement posted on the Instagram account @gunungkawistory, the management emphasized that Mount Kawi has long been known as a sacred place for pilgrimage, offering prayers, and expressing gratitude. The management regrets the negative stigma formed due to sensational content circulating without a strong historical basis.
Furthermore, the management stressed that long before the digital era, Mount Kawi had been a destination for thousands of pilgrims coming with good intentions. The presence of these pilgrims indirectly drives the economy for local residents, ranging from the flower trade sector to accommodation services and transportation.
The narrative put forward by the management states that Mount Kawi is home to noble values passed down through generations. They hope the public can be wiser in dealing with circulating information and appreciate the true historical and cultural aspects of the religious tourism destination rather than simply believing sensation-seeking content.
