Minister of Culture Fadli Zon responded to the widespread social media narrative linking pilgrimage activities at Mount Kawi, Malang Regency, to wealth-retrieval rituals (pesugihan). He emphasized that the site is an inseparable part of the rich tradition and cultural mosaic that has long developed within Indonesian society.
According to Fadli, pilgrimage activities on Mount Kawi should not be viewed unilaterally or attached to a negative stigma. As long as the practice does not damage the environment, disrupt public order, and is able to provide added economic value to the local community, it should be seen as a sociological reality that needs to be understood within the context of the nation's diversity.
For context, the Mount Kawi Pesarean complex is the final resting place of spiritual figures Raden Mas Soeryo Koesoemo or Kiai Zakaria II (Eyang Djoego) and Raden Mas Iman Soedjono. Historically, this site has been a pilgrimage destination for many people from various regions across Indonesia.
This pilgrimage tradition usually peaks during certain moments, such as the Islamic New Year celebration or 1 Suro. During these times, various cultural processions, ranging from community parades to flower-scattering rituals, are held regularly. Beyond preserving culture, these activities have proven capable of driving the local economy through religious tourism and services for pilgrims.
