What began as a relaxing family outing quickly turned into a moment of panic after a Malaysian family picnicking near Kelau Dam in Pahang claimed they heard the roar of a tiger — twice.
The terrifying moment was captured and shared by a netizen named Suraya on TikTok. In the now-viral clip, camping gear, fishing rods, and foldable chairs were left abandoned by the lakeside as the family quickly retreated into their car to take shelter.
“We clearly heard the tiger’s growl — twice”
Speaking in her video, Suraya said they clearly heard low growling sounds twice, believed to be from a tiger nearby.
For the safety of our family, we didn’t even bother packing up — we immediately got into the car and locked the doors,” she wrote. “Others who were also picnicking nearby did the same and stayed in their cars.”
According to her, another man who was also fishing at the same spot claimed that his car had been damaged the night before, possibly by a tiger. He had already reported the incident to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN).
Waited two hours for help to arrive
Suraya said she also called the authorities and waited in the car for nearly two hours until PERHILITAN officers arrived.
Only after they were given the all-clear did they dare return to the lakeside to retrieve their belongings.
The incident has since gone viral, with netizens expressing concern over the increasing number of wildlife encounters in remote recreational areas. Many urged the public to avoid secluded natural spots, especially those known to be within wildlife zones.
Netizens share tiger survival tips
Some experienced commenters shared useful “survival tips” in the comments section. One user noted that if a tiger’s roar sounds loud and sharp, it typically means the animal is still 3 to 5 kilometres away.
But if the growl is low and slow, it could mean the tiger is much closer — and may already be watching its target.
“If a tiger really wants to pounce, it won’t growl first.”
“Usually when it growls, it’s giving a warning… maybe it just wanted to come down to drink water. This type doesn’t want to bother people, that’s why it gave a warning first.”
Some netizens also took the opportunity to poke fun at the situation.
“I was the same, sis. The other day I was watching TV when I heard a tiger growl right by my ear — it was just my wife telling me to take out the trash. A ‘tiger’ indeed 😂”
