Back to Events
Pontianak
The vengeful spirit of a woman who died in childbirth. She appears beautiful until close—then reveals her hideous true form. Her fragrance announces her: floral means she's near, rotting means she's close.
Ancient - Present
Malaysia, Indonesia
10000+ witnesses
The Pontianak is a female vampire ghost from Malay folklore—the spirit of a woman who died during pregnancy or childbirth.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Pontianak:
- Is the spirit of a woman who died in childbirth
- Appears as a beautiful woman
- Transforms into a monster
- Hunts men
- Extremely feared in Southeast Asia
Warning Signs
You’ll know she’s near when:
- You smell floral fragrance (far)
- Smell rotting flesh (very close)
- Dogs howl
- Babies cry
- Hear her laughter
Behavior
The Pontianak:
- Lures men with beauty
- Kills them viciously
- Rips out organs with claws
- Particularly targets unfaithful men
- Haunts banana trees at night
How to Stop Her
Traditional methods:
- Drive a nail into her neck hole
- Iron repels her
- Certain prayers protect