AS the Year of the Snake begins on Jan 29, the reptile – often regarded with fear in the 12-year animal zodiac cycle – is, in fact, a ‘friendly’ creature when treated with care.
For most people, snakes evoke fear due to their slithering movements and venomous bites, which can be fatal. However, snakes can be safely managed and even kept as pets by those who understand and handle them properly.
To challenge public misconceptions, K.P. Ong, who manages nature walks at Penang Hill, has made efforts to educate the public about these misunderstood reptiles.
Ong describes snakes as among the easiest animals in the 12-zodiac cycle to coexist with.
“They won’t attack us if we do not harm or threaten them.
“This principle applies to humans too – we won’t attack others unless we feel provoked,” Ong explained.
“Snakes become defensive when they sense a threat or feel that their natural habitats have been encroached upon.
“We need to understand that forests, jungles, and bushes are their home. If we accidentally step on a snake during a hike, it may bite us, not out of aggression but as a natural defense.
“We need to stay vigilant on trails and always be aware of our surroundings.
“Snakes can move faster than we expect, so having a guide while hiking can be very helpful. Most snakes are active at night and tend to hide during the day,” said Ong, a well-known nature guide at Penang Hill.
Ong advises hikers to remain calm if they encounter a snake and to avoid provoking it.
“If you see a snake, slowly back away to avoid any risk.
“There is no need to act like a hero; just leave the scene quietly. Remember, we are intruders in their habitat, and we must respect their space,” he said, noting that the cobra is one of the most venomous snakes.
Recalling a particular incident on the Penang Hill heritage trail, Ong shared how he shouted at hikers to stop provoking a cobra with a stick.
“Never try to fight a cobra, or your life could be in serious danger. Throw the stick and run away,” he recalled.
Ong also recounted his own experience with a snake bite while trying to catch a small python during a brisk walk at Air Itam Dam.
“It was a minor bite, and I recovered quickly.
“It happened because I tried to catch the snake, which reacted aggressively,” he said, emphasising the importance of leaving snakes undisturbed.
Meanwhile, ‘Snake King Ali’, Ong’s partner in handling snakes, shared how his bond with reptiles began during childhood.
“I worked in a zoo in South Korea before returning to Penang decades ago,” he said.
Ali now earns a living by allowing visitors at tourist spots to take photos with snakes.
Recalling a memorable experience, Ali shared that he was once bitten by a cobra and remained unconscious for three days.
He urged aspiring snake handlers to be extremely cautious.
“Snakes demand respect and careful handling,” Ali said, stressing the importance of knowledge and experience when working with these fascinating creatures.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting