A video circulating online shows a primary school pupil in Cianjur Regency, West Java, calmly carrying a snake inside her school bag. The footage quickly drew attention for its unusual but matter-of-fact scene.
In the clip, the girl, still dressed in her school uniform, stands beside a young boy as someone approaches and asks what she is carrying. At first, it seems like a typical school bag, perhaps filled with books or lunch. Instead, the girl opens it to reveal a live snake inside.
Without hesitation, she takes the reptile out and handles it with ease. She appears relaxed and familiar with the animal, gently holding it while speaking to those around her. The moment feels less like a stunt and more like part of her daily routine.
The girl, identified as Meisa Arifa Kartiwa, is eight years old and currently in the second grade. She is also known as Caca. According to her, the snake in the video is not a rare occurrence in her life.
“I’ve loved playing with snakes since before school. The one in the video is called Zoro, a king koros snake. But there are many others at home,” she said, as reported by detikJabar on Monday (27 April 2026).
Growing Up Around Reptiles
Caca explained that her interest in reptiles started at an early age. What may seem unusual to others is something she considers entirely normal. Her familiarity with snakes, she said, comes from growing up in an environment where they are part of daily life.
She described how her father plays a key role in ensuring the animals are safe to handle. Most of the snakes, although originally from the wild, have been tamed under his supervision.
“I’m not afraid, my father has tamed them. That’s why I even sleep with Zoro or other snakes,” she said.
The snake featured in the video is reported to measure around two metres in length. Despite its size, Caca treats it like a companion rather than something to fear. Her calm behaviour in the footage reflects that sense of familiarity.
Online reactions to the video have been mixed. Some viewers expressed concern over safety, while others focused on the child’s confidence and care when handling the animal.
One comment read, “Gen ZY has zero survival instincts.” Another user took a different view, writing, “Love how she petted the snake with care, it’s not a venomous snake. Fearless children. I hope you grow up to be great people, little one.”
The video continues to circulate across platforms, prompting conversations about children, animals, and the boundaries of what is considered normal in different environments. While some see risk, others see a child simply growing up with what she knows best.