javaprivatetour.com – Hey there, fellow traveler! Today, let’s take a detour from the usual tourist trails and delve into a story that’s been brewing in a quaint corner of East Java. Nestled in Gondanglegi, a modest sub-district in Malang Regency, lies a coffee shop that’s become the talk of the town—but not for its latte art or single-origin brews. Welcome to Warung Kopi Cetol, located at Jalan Gajahmada No. 30, Krajan, Gondanglegi Wetan. The name “Cetol” in Javanese playfully means to pinch, like a light squeeze on the cheek or arm. But don’t let the innocent name fool you; this establishment offers more than just a caffeine fix, providing “plus-plus” services that have raised eyebrows and piqued curiosity alike.
What Exactly is Warung Kopi Cetol?
This isn’t your typical neighborhood coffee joint. Operating for over a decade, Warung Kopi Cetol serves a humble cup of traditional Javanese coffee, known as kopi tubruk, for just Rp5,000. But the real draw isn’t the rich aroma or the robust flavor; it’s the exclusive services offered by young, attractive waitresses adept at charming their patrons. After placing an order, customers are treated not only to their beverage but also to personal interactions that go beyond the norm. From inviting patrons to sit close, to allowing intimate gestures like hugs or light touches, these services are rendered in semi-private spaces within the establishment. It’s akin to a local version of a “cozy café” with a twist unique to Gondanglegi.
A Peek into the Exclusive Yet Contradictory Services
Interestingly, there’s an internal rule for the waitresses: they’re prohibited from wearing overly revealing attire while on duty. The rationale? To avoid arousing suspicion among the local community, many of whom oppose the café’s presence. This approach is clearly designed to deceive the surrounding residents who disapprove of such establishments. “So it doesn’t look obvious if their clothes are as revealing as nightclub hostesses,” explained a source. Adding to the irony, the café is strategically located directly across from the Grand Mosque of Gondanglegi, intensifying the juxtaposition between piety and vice.
The existence of Warung Kopi Cetol gained traction on social media platforms, especially TikTok. However, this surge in online attention only increased its patronage. On a typical day, the café sees over 100 visitors, with peak hours usually occurring on Friday afternoons. Operating hours are from 8 AM to 3 PM daily. For those seeking more private encounters, transactions can be arranged via the Michat application, with rates starting at Rp350,000.
The “plus” services are priced based on pre-agreed tips, ranging from Rp10,000 to Rp50,000. For patrons who feel “shy” about ordering directly on-site, the app serves as a convenient avenue to continue interactions with the waitresses outside the café. This phenomenon prompts us to question how such an establishment has managed to operate for so long without interference.
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A Decade of Operation Amidst Controversy
Warung Kopi Cetol has been around for over 10 years. Throughout its journey, its presence went viral on TikTok, but the impact was contrary to expectations; instead of being shut down, its area expanded. In fact, around 15 similar cafés have sprung up in the Gondanglegi area. One unique reason behind their continued “survival” is an internal rule for the waitresses to avoid wearing overly revealing attire. No hot pants allowed. The reason? “So it doesn’t look obvious if their clothes are as revealing as nightclub hostesses,” quoting from an interview with a local media source in Malang. This approach has proven effective in deceiving the surrounding community who oppose the café’s existence.
The Social Impact and Eroding Morality
What makes Warung Kopi Cetol even more concerning is its growing popularity among young students. Instead of spending their time studying or engaging in productive activities, some students were found frequenting this café, drawn by its unique “services.” This phenomenon raises alarming questions about the role of social media, economic struggles, and shifting moral values in shaping modern society.
On one hand, these cafés provide a source of income for many, especially young women seeking financial independence. On the other hand, their existence raises ethical concerns about how public spaces like coffee shops can be transformed into morally questionable establishments. So, who should be held accountable? The café owners? The authorities? Or society itself, which seems to turn a blind eye to such issues?
Authorities Finally Shut It Down
After years of controversy, authorities finally took action. On January 5, 2024, a joint operation by the Malang Police, Satpol PP (Public Order Agency), and Muspika (sub-district authorities) raided Warung Kopi Cetol in the Gondanglegi market area. The operation resulted in the detention of 51 individuals, including seven minors.
The café was officially declared a public nuisance due to its alleged involvement in covert prostitution. Reports confirmed that customers could interact physically with the waitresses, validating long-standing suspicions about what was really happening behind the scenes.
Despite its closure, the legacy of Warung Kopi Cetol remains a subject of heated debate. Will similar establishments continue to emerge in other areas? How should local authorities and communities address such issues in the future?
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