KUALA LUMPUR: Netizens did not hold back in condemning a man seen in a viral video abusing his pet monkey.
In a 1-minute-44-second clip that went viral yesterday, the man is seen repeatedly beating, slapping, and smashing his pet monkey.
Believed to be in his 30s and from Kelantan, he was seen grappling with the adult macaque, which had a chain around its neck.
The video shows him choking the animal, slapping its face and head multiple times, then dragging it and lifting it off the ground before slamming it onto the floor.
The man appeared to be encouraged by his friends, who were heard laughing and did not intervene.
Earlier today, the Malaysia Stray Animal Association (SAFM) said it has received complaints from the public over the video, believed to have been recorded in Kelantan.
On Facebook, comments condemning the man’s actions quickly piled up.
Muhamad Fariq Ahamad wrote: “You are stupid to treat an animal like that. Shame on you, you foolish human. Hope you get caught and punished by being put in a tiger cage.”
Another user, Rozanie Haron, commented: “I don’t even know which one is the animal!”
SAFM urged the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) to take immediate action.
“We also call on witnesses or anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation. Animal abuse is a serious offence under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010,” SAFM said.
Under Section 86 of the Act, offenders may face a fine of up to RM100,000, a jail term of up to three years, or both.
SAFM said it will continue monitoring the case to ensure authorities act firmly and swiftly to deliver justice.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
