Editor’s Note
- Making Money with the Viral White Tiger Statue
- The Work of Mbah Suwari
- The White Tiger: A Local Legend
Making Money with the Viral White Tiger Statue
The white tiger statue that went viral in Kediri is gaining popularity. Initially viral for its cute appearance, the white tiger statue has now become a new icon in Kediri.
As has been widely shared on TikTok, the area around the white tiger statue is now used every Sunday as the location for Car Free Day (CFD). Moreover, the white tiger statue is also featured on various souvenirs, such as T-shirts.
A post from the TikTok account Jembling_021 shows a vendor selling T-shirts with a white tiger. Interest was high, with residents crowding around the vendor to buy the shirts.
Reactions revealed that the white tiger is not only used as an image on T-shirts but is also made into dolls. The post has generated mixed reactions from internet users.
Mbah Suwari’s Work
Many internet users are now praising the creator of the statue, often referred to as Mbah Suwari. They believe Mbah Suwari’s work has been a blessing to the local community.
“Don’t forget Mbah Suwari, who created the statue. If it sells well,” wrote Feni Fitri Lestari, as quoted on Sunday (January 4, 2026).
“Alhamdulillah, Mbah Suwari’s work brings blessings,” wrote the geprekku account.
“He cleverly created the statue to coincide with the Christmas and New Year holidays, making it look like a tourist attraction. And if it stops going viral, they’ll take it down. If that happens, a part 2 might go viral,” wrote Tata.
White Tiger: A Local Legend
For your information: the white tiger statue isn’t just any artwork. According to the village chief, Safi’i, this monument was created during a village meeting attended by community leaders, religious leaders, and youth.
The name Macan Putih derives from a local legend long passed down through the community’s oral tradition. The White Tiger is considered a protective symbol that shields the village from evil.
This sculpture was created in 19 days by a local artist named Suwari. Although the result has provoked mixed reactions, Suwari sees the work as a significant part of local culture and identity. ***spr
