Brickfields is a neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is often referred to as the city’s “Little India” due to its significant Indian population and culture. Brickfields is situated on the western flank of central Kuala Lumpur with a KL Sentral as major transportation hub located within its boundaries.
Brickfields, KL
How Did Brickfields Develop Over Time?
Brickfields’ origins date back to the late 19th century. In 1881, Kuala Lumpur experienced a devastating flood and subsequent fire, prompting the British Resident of Selangor, Frank Swettenham, to advocate for the construction of buildings using bricks and tiles rather than wood and thatch. This led Kapitan Yap Ah Loy to purchase land in what is now Brickfields to establish a brick-making industry, hence the area’s name. The district developed rapidly, becoming the primary site for the production of bricks, which were in high demand as Kuala Lumpur expanded.
The area’s development was further fueled by its strategic location as the main depot for the Malayan Railway during British colonial rule. Workers, primarily from Sri Lanka, were brought in to work on the railway and the depot, leading to a lasting Indian presence in the area.
What Is the Cultural Significance of Brickfields?
Brickfields serves as a cultural melting pot, with a predominant Indian influence, manifesting in its temples, food, and festivals. It is renowned for its Indian cuisine, offering delicacies such as banana leaf rice and thosai, a testament to its rich culinary heritage.
One of the cultural landmarks is the YMCA, which has been a part of Brickfields for over a century, along with the Vivekananda Ashramam, a charming heritage site. The area also features the Temple of Fine Arts, which promotes Indian music, dance, and arts, highlighting Brickfields’ role in preserving and promoting Indian culture.
What Places of Worship Are Found in Brickfields?
Brickfields is known as a “Divine Location” due to its diversity of religious structures, some of which are over a century old. Key places of worship include the Buddhist Maha Vihara, founded in 1894, which is significant for its annual Wesak procession. The Sri Kandaswamy Kovil, a prominent Sri Lankan Tamil temple built in 1902, showcases elaborate Tamil architecture.
The area is also home to several churches, such as the Holy Rosary Church and the Zion Lutheran Church, reflecting a rich tapestry of religious faiths coexisting harmoniously. Additionally, the Sam Kow Tong Temple, a Chinese temple, and the Madrasatul Gouthiyyah Surau, a small mosque, further illustrate the area’s religious diversity.
What Are the Key Trades and Businesses in Brickfields?
Brickfields, as Kuala Lumpur’s Little India, is a bustling commercial district with numerous Indian-owned businesses. The area is lined with shops selling spices, textiles, traditional Indian clothing, and jewelry, contributing to its vibrant marketplace atmosphere. The district is also home to various printing and paper distribution businesses concentrated along Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad.
The presence of KL Sentral, the city’s central public transportation hub, has spurred further commercial development, attracting a diverse range of businesses and services to the area.
How Has Brickfields Developed and Transformed?
Brickfields has evolved from a primarily residential area into a commercial and transportation hub. The KL Sentral development project, one of Kuala Lumpur’s largest, includes a transportation hub, hotels, condominiums, shopping complexes, and office buildings. This transformation reflects the area’s strategic importance and its role in the city’s growth.
Despite rapid development, efforts have been made to preserve Brickfields’ historical and cultural identity. The area remains an eclectic mix of old and new, with colonial-era structures coexisting alongside modern high-rises.
How Can One Access Brickfields?
Brickfields is well-connected and easily accessible through various modes of transport. It is served by the KL Monorail, Rapid KL’s Kelana Jaya Line (LRT), MRT Sungai Buloh-Kajang Line, KTM Komuter, and Express Rail Link, all converging at KL Sentral. Additionally, numerous Rapid KL buses operate in the area, making it convenient for locals and tourists alike to visit.
Who Are Some Notable Personalities from Brickfields?
Brickfields has been the birthplace and home to several prominent figures in Malaysia. Ananda Krishnan, one of Southeast Asia’s richest men, and Tan Sri Devaki Krishnan, the first Malaysian woman to stand for election, both hail from this vibrant community. Their achievements underscore the area’s role in nurturing talent and contributing to the nation’s socio-economic fabric.