Cherating The Turtle: A Malaysian Folktale About Unexpected Friendship and Cunning Schemes!

This 18th-century Malaysian folktale, “Cherating the Turtle,” delves into the complex world of animal relationships, highlighting the unexpected bond between a cunning monkey and a slow but steadfast turtle. It’s a story that simultaneously entertains with its humor and delivers profound lessons about friendship, trust, and the power of ingenuity.

The tale begins with Cherating, a clever monkey known throughout the jungle for his quick wit and penchant for mischief. He stumbles upon a plump and juicy durian fruit perched high on a branch, far beyond his reach. Determined to enjoy this delicious treat, Cherating scans the forest floor and spots a turtle slowly lumbering by.

An idea sparks in Cherating’s mischievous mind. Approaching the turtle with feigned sincerity, he proposes a deal: “My dear friend,” Cherating begins, “I see you are strong and steady. Would you be willing to climb this tree and retrieve that magnificent durian for me?” The turtle, naively trusting Cherating’s words, agrees.

Cherating then instructs the turtle on how to climb the tree, providing exaggerated guidance and even offering a few helpful pushes (which mostly served to launch the turtle further up the trunk). After much effort, the exhausted turtle finally reaches the durian. Triumphantly, he plucks the fruit and slowly descends back to the ground.

But alas, Cherating’s true intentions are soon revealed. As the turtle approaches, Cherating snatches the durian from his grasp, exclaiming, “Thank you, my friend! Your efforts were truly appreciated!” Before the bewildered turtle can react, Cherating scurries away with his prize, leaving the turtle empty-handed and deeply disheartened.

The tale doesn’t end there. “Cherating the Turtle” continues with a surprising twist. The turtle, despite being initially betrayed, learns from the experience. He realizes the importance of discernment and recognizing true intentions. With newfound wisdom, he sets out to devise a plan to outsmart Cherating.

This plan unfolds in a series of cunning maneuvers. The turtle uses his slow pace to his advantage, pretending to be easily fooled once again. He allows Cherating to believe he has fallen for the same trick, only to surprise the monkey with a clever countermove when the time is right.

The story’s ending celebrates the triumph of intelligence and perseverance over cunning and deceit. The turtle outsmarts Cherating, reclaiming the durian and proving that even seemingly powerless creatures can achieve justice through wit and determination.

Themes and Symbolism in “Cherating the Turtle”

“Cherating the Turtle,” beyond its entertaining narrative, serves as a valuable lesson about navigating social interactions and understanding the complexities of trust. It reminds us to be mindful of intentions, to value perseverance over shortcuts, and ultimately, to believe in our own capacity for achieving justice through ingenuity and unwavering determination.