A playful moment involving a Malayan tiger at Zoo Negara has gone viral after the majestic beast found itself in a rather un-majestic situation, getting its claw stuck on a piece of cloth hanging inside its enclosure.
The video, posted by TikTok user Budin Lesmana, quickly caught the attention of netizens who were both amused and concerned, debating whether someone should’ve helped the tiger or just let nature and gravity do its thing.
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Not your usual tiger sighting
In the short clip, the tiger can be seen standing on its hind legs, swiping at what appears to be enrichment cloth tied to the enclosure until its claw gets tangled.
For a few awkward seconds, the tiger struggled to free itself. But just as tension built up for the viewers, it managed to break free and strutted away like nothing happened.
“Just like a cat la!”
The incident may have lasted only a few seconds, but netizens couldn’t help but leave a flood of hilarious comments.
Many compared the tiger to a house cat struggling with curtains or string toys.
“From the small ones to the big ones, they all behave the same.”
“Alamak, I thought only cats like to get stuck on curtains.”
Meanwhile, some netizens think the scene resembles a person holding the handlebars on an MRT or LRT.
Behind the scenes
Speaking to WeirdKaya, the user shared some background on what went down:
So it actually happened on July 15. I was doing a special report in Zoo Negara, specifically at the tiger section. It was around 10am, I think.”
Budin added that Zoo Negara had actually set up toys and treats for the Malayan tiger, specially for them on weekdays, as an appointment was made to shoot the tiger.
So we were just watching it play then she accidentally got her nail stuck and I just started recording.”
In the comment section, a netizen who seems to be also at the scene was explaining what was actually going on. It turned out to be a regular exercise for the Malayan tiger.
Her name is Squash. Inside the gunny sack, there’s hay and some leaves for sensory enrichment. The objective is for her to bite and tear the sack. basically, it’s exercise.”
Don’t worry, the thin rope is designed to break easily. Her keeper was right in front, being interviewed when it happened.”
He added that there were also balls and boxes placed inside the exhibit.
Anything related to enrichment, I always make sure it’s safe for the animals. Thanks to those who were concerned.”
**Special thanks to Budin for sharing the story
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