JOHOR BARU: Residents in several housing areas around Johor Baru say they are increasingly troubled by troops of monkeys, raising concerns over public safety and the risk of more serious incidents.
Affected areas include Jalan Gunung in Bandar Seri Alam, Taman Impian Emas and Jalan Kolam Ayer in the city centre.
Other areas at risk include Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Desa Mutiara in Tebrau, Taman Aman in Senai, Jalan Sakura in Kampung Maju Jaya, Senai, as well as Taman Pulai Perdana and Taman Pulai Utama.
Senai resident Zainureeza Zainuddin, 43, said the monkeys had caused problems for the past year, affecting residents' safety, cleanliness and property.
He said the animals rummaged through rubbish bins, leaving residential areas dirty, and damaged crops such as banana, papaya and mango trees.
"We have contacted the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan), and action was taken. However, the monkeys managed to escape from the traps or cages set up for them.
"When we try to chase them away, they become aggressive. We are worried about our families' safety, especially the children.
"We hope the monkeys can be relocated to a suitable area so the problem does not continue," he said.
Bandar Seri Alam resident Arman Hakim, 50, said human-monkey conflict in the city was worsening, causing growing concern among residents.
He said dozens of monkeys roamed the housing area, particularly around midday and in the evening, in search of food.
Residents had resorted to setting off firecrackers to scare the animals away, but the problem persisted, he said.
"The monkeys climb onto cars and house roofs, and some have started entering fenced compounds. We lodged complaints, and some action was taken, but the problem remains unresolved.
"We believe the monkeys are losing their habitat as more areas are developed. The state government should take action to protect the animals and relocate them to a suitable area.
"This nuisance should not be taken lightly, as it reflects growing conflict between monkeys and humans," he said.
Meanwhile, Kampung Maju Jaya resident Abrizah Abu Bakar, 64, said complaints affecting community well-being, including those involving wild monkeys, should be followed up until the problems are resolved.
She said the monkeys also disturbed her pets, including cats and serama chickens kept in cages beside her house.
"They often steal clothes left to dry outside. This has happened so many times that we now have to dry our clothes indoors.
"We are worried about the safety of our grandchildren when they play outside.
"We fear the monkeys may become aggressive and attack residents as their numbers continue to grow," she said.
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