MALAYSIA: A six-year-old boy was injured after being bitten by a python while using the bathroom in their apartment at Prima Court in Saujana Melawati. The shocking incident, which took place at noon on Feb 11, has reignited concerns over human-wildlife encounters in urban residential areas near forested regions.
The boy, Hadi, was bitten by the snake as he lifted the toilet seat in the master bedroom’s bathroom. His mother, Adibah Aziz, was in the kitchen at the time and rushed to his aid after hearing his terrified screams.
“At that time, I was cooking in the kitchen when I heard my son scream and rush out of the room, with blood dripping from him,” she recalled in an article by New Straits Times (NST). “He told me he had been bitten by a snake, and I immediately ran out to ask the neighbours to call an ambulance and the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) for help.”
Hadi suffered injuries to his groin and hand and was immediately taken to Ampang Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, doctors confirmed that he was in stable condition.
A growing problem in urban areas
The attack has once again highlighted the increasing frequency of human-wildlife encounters in residential areas, particularly those bordering forested regions. Adibah herself acknowledged the risk posed by the location of their home.
“I cannot deny that our home’s location, near Zoo Negara and surrounded by forested areas, is a factor that results in snakes often being found around our residence,” she said in the same NST article.
Authorities confirmed that four personnel from the Gombak district’s APM were dispatched to the apartment at 12:45 pm, where they successfully captured and removed the python.
Netizens react with shock and humour
The incident has sparked strong reactions online, with many netizens expressing horror at the thought of encountering a snake in their toilet. One user wrote, “The day I find a snake in my toilet is the day I’ll revert to the ancient method of digging a hole in a field.”
Others pointed out the architectural factors such incidents are relatively rare, with one commenter stating, “I remember this is why toilets usually have an S-bend and a water trap.”
Some, however, sought to downplay the fear, with one user remarking, “Well, I’m gonna be the guy and say it—at least it’s a python and not venomous.” Despite the attempt at reassurance, another user summed up the general sentiment with a simple reaction: “New fear unlocked.”
Preventive measures and public awareness
While incidents like these remain relatively rare, they serve as a stark reminder of the importance of heightened awareness and precautionary measures in areas prone to wildlife intrusions. Experts recommend regular checks of plumbing and drainage systems, as well as ensuring all potential entry points for animals are sealed.
With urban development continuing to encroach on natural habitats, cases of wildlife venturing into homes are likely to persist. For now, Hadi’s family is relieved that he escaped with only minor injuries—but the incident serves as a warning that nature is never too far away.