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The Pontianak | 7

The Pontianak is the Malay Peninsula’s fiercest – and most fearsome – phantom. She’s a vampire ghost known for her terrifying appearance and insatiable hunger for revenge.

This powerful entity represents a fascinating tension between traditional mystical beliefs, contemporary Islamic culture, and Western scientific viewpoints in the region.

Of course, her story also reflects the patriarchal societies she haunts. The legend of the Pontianak highlights the fear of women's power and agency, as she embodies uncontrolled passion and a defiant attitude towards societal expectations.

Despite attempts to banish or destroy her, the Pontianak remains a symbol of resistance and a reminder that monsters never truly disappear.

Key moments

• 1:06 Clever Amir
• 8:03 Welcome to the party!
• 10:09 The Pontianak and the Kuntilanak
• 13:57 The city founded by ghosts
• 15:21 Mysticism, Islam and scientific beliefs
• 16:27 Patriarchy on the peninsula
• 22:30 She's still out there

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