Hantu Penyet

ghost · Malaysia · Southeast Asia

Hantu Penyet (literally 'Squashed Ghost') is a popular ghost from Malaysian folklore known for its distinctive and grotesque appearance. Part of the rich tapestry of Malay hantu (spirits), this particular entity is unique for being more of a prankster than a genuinely malevolent spirit. Its name derives from the Malay word 'penyet' meaning 'squashed' or 'flattened,' describing its most prominent feature: a face that appears to have been pressed flat against a window or wall. Hantu Penyet is one of the better-known figures in modern Malaysian ghost lore and frequently appears in popular culture

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