Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has responded to the recent controversy on social media regarding pilgrimage activities at Mount Kawi, East Java. He emphasized that the practice is part of an ancient tradition and culture that is inseparable from the diverse spiritual understandings of the Indonesian people.
Fadli highlighted that the phenomenon at Mount Kawi is just one of many cultural practices across various regions in the country. According to him, as long as these activities provide economic benefits to the local community and do not cause damage or harm, the government views them as a normal reality of social life.
This statement comes following widespread online discussions linking the pilgrimage practices at the site to rumors of *pesugihan* (ritual wealth-seeking). In fact, historically, the Pesarean Gunung Kawi in Malang Regency is a burial complex for respected figures, namely Raden Mas Soeryo Koesoemo or Kiai Zakaria II (Eyang Djoego) and Raden Mas Iman Soedjono.
As a religious destination with a long history, the complex is regularly visited by pilgrims, especially during the Islamic New Year or 1 Suro celebrations. Various processions, such as community parades and flower-sprinkling rituals, have become annual traditions preserved by the local community as part of their rich cultural heritage.
