Johor hunts five feral dogs after Batu Pahat child attack

Johor authorities have ordered a search for five feral dogs after a young girl was seriously injured in an attack outside her grandmother’s home in Batu Pahat.

The child was attacked in Kampung Tambak, Sungai Kelambu, in the Peserai area. The incident has renewed concern among residents over dogs said to be roaming near homes and an oil-palm plantation.

The girl was initially taken to Sultanah Nora Ismail Hospital in Batu Pahat before being transferred to Sultanah Aminah Hospital in Johor Bahru because of the severity of her injuries. Earlier reports said she suffered serious injuries to her head and face.

Search focuses on the remaining dogs

Johor has ordered action against the five dogs involved in the attack. Authorities are expected to work with local agencies to locate the animals and reduce the risk of another incident.

The girl's grandmother said the dogs had been seen in the area before. She alleged they may have been abandoned by hunters who used them to hunt wild boar nearby, although that claim has not been independently confirmed.

Police have recorded a report and are investigating the circumstances of the attack under the Child Act 2001.

Residents raise safety concerns

The case has drawn attention to the dangers posed by unmanaged feral dogs in residential and rural areas. Residents said the animals had become a concern before the attack, particularly where children walk or play outside.

Local action can include capturing roaming dogs, checking whether they are owned or abandoned, and addressing reports of aggressive behaviour before an animal causes harm. Families in affected areas may also need to keep children close to home until the search is complete.

What it means for foreigners in Malaysia

Foreign residents living in semi-rural parts of Johor should take reports of roaming dogs seriously, especially when walking children or pets near plantations, village roads and open land. Avoid approaching packs of dogs, keep a safe distance if animals appear territorial, and report aggressive or stray dogs to the local council or police. Visitors using rental homes outside town centres should also check with hosts about local animal-safety issues.

8 September 2026