Cover image via 
A three-year-old toddler was attacked by a stray monkey at a row of food stalls in Pahang last Thursday, 2 December
According to New Straits Times, toddler Syed Nur Akif Rizqi Syed Ahmad was attacked at the roadside of Jalan Muadzam Shah, Rombin, at 3.30pm. The incident was witnessed by a food stall operator.
Image via Berita Harian
Prior to the attack, the toddler's mother was away to collect food while the toddler was watching a video on his mother's smartphone
The monkey then approached the toddler and attacked him with its claws and teeth, reported Berita Harian.
Akif's mother came to his rescue after hearing him scream in pain.
He suffered deep cuts to his legs, back, and head from the attack. He was rushed to the Segamat Hospital for treatment and is reportedly in stable condition now.
Image via Sinar Harian
District Police Chief Deputy Superintendent Azari Miskon revealed that the monkey frequently roams the area
"The 29-year-old operator spotted the monkey attacking the boy (who was in its grip). After several seconds, the monkey released the boy and ran into the nearby jungle," said Azari.
"The operator then alerted the authorities. He lodged a police report, saying that the monkey was often seen near eateries in the area."
After the incident, Pahang's Wildlife and National Parks Department (PERHILITAN) managed to capture the monkey the next day, 3 January
PERHILITAN director Rozidan Md Yasin urged the members of the public not to feed wild monkeys.
"Feeding the monkeys will make the animals dependent on humans. If there are barriers to food, monkeys have the potential to rob and injure those who are obstructing it," explained Rozidan.
"Children are monkeys' most frequent attack target. I advise parents and other adults to always watch over their children and avoid the areas where monkeys are present."
