GEORGE TOWN: A troop of over 40 monkeys leaping from house-to-house near the Penang Botanical Gardens here has caught the attention of residents living near the park.

       A 31-year-old sales executive, who wished to be known as Neoh, said that he spotted the monkeys as he was finishing breakfast on Tuesday (June 22).

       The monkeys - big and small - suddenly leapt past the houses of neighbours. I immediately asked my family to close the windows and doors. The monkeys usually do not harm and attack humans, said Neoh.

       He added that while it was normal to see three or four monkeys, it is unusual to see such a large number in the area.

       “I believe the bunch of monkeys came out of the forest to look for food, as the Penang Botanical Gardens and Penang City Park are closed during the lockdown.

       It is learnt that the Wildlife Department officers will set up traps at the housing area if they receive any complaints.

       If there are no complaints from the public, they can only observe the situation before taking any action.