A mother and her children were left frightened after two monkeys made an unexpected appearance at their Bukit Panjang flat, with one of the animals appearing to make its way through the balcony grilles.
The encounter was captured in a TikTok video shared by user @leakhamelia on 9 November, showing the monkeys climbing along the balcony ledge of the residential unit.
The video quickly attracted attention online, with viewers amused by the family’s panicked reactions as the unexpected visitors came dangerously close to entering their home.
One Monkey Attempts To Squeeze Through Balcony Grilles
In the footage, the first monkey can be seen perched outside the balcony, holding onto the invisible grilles as it explores the area.
It subsequently moves along the ledge before disappearing from view.
Moments later, a woman can be heard screaming, apparently after noticing another monkey approaching the balcony.
The second monkey appears considerably bolder, moving past the invisible grilles and getting close to entering the residential unit.
Its unexpected movements prompt loud screams from the mother and her children.
One of the children can also be heard urgently calling for their father, shouting that there is a monkey at the balcony.
The commotion appears to discourage the animal from proceeding further, and it eventually leaps out of sight.
AVS Advises Residents To Remain Calm Around Monkeys
The incident also serves as a reminder for residents living near green spaces to be cautious when encountering macaques.
According to the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS), macaques may visit residential areas out of curiosity or while searching for food.
Residents who encounter a macaque inside their home are advised to remain calm and avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
AVS recommends using a stick to tap the ground to discourage the animal from approaching, while gently guiding it towards an exit.
Members of the public who require assistance can contact the Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600.
While the Bukit Panjang family managed to get through their unexpected encounter safely, the footage shows how startling it can be when wildlife gets a little too close to home.