The Hantu Laut was a Malaysian spirit of the sea.
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The Hantu Laut is from Malaysian lore and when directly translated it means “sea spirits.” These spirits of the sea were considered cannibalistic and was known to attack men at sea, particularly as fisherman and sailors. They considered vampires, feasting on the blood and life of the living.

When Malaysian fisherman would enter parts of the water where the hantu laut was believed to inhabit, they would proceed with caution and avoid making noise. They had great respect for the spirits and would not fish fearing their wrath. If they did, it would cause the spirits to be upset and cause accidents and disasters.