The Toyol
In Malay folklore, a small child-spirit called a toyol is kept to steal money for its master.
What was reported
The toyol is a spirit of Malay folklore, said to be raised by a sorcerer and kept in a jar. It's described as a small greenish child with red eyes, sent out at night to steal money and small valuables from the neighbours.
Families protected their savings with tricks to distract it, such as scattering beans, marbles or toys near the money, since the toyol was said to be playful and easily distracted.
Explanations offered
The belief was often used to explain missing money, and could stir up suspicion between neighbours. Folklorists see the toyol as a tale about greed and envy. It's a familiar figure in Malaysian films and stories.
- When
- Told for generations
- Where
- Kelantan, Malaysia
- Witnesses
- Malay tradition
- Status
- Legend
Famous cases are real, widely reported events. Each file sets out what witnesses said and the explanations that have been offered, without taking a side.