LETTER | Few politicians exhibit the sharp wit and practical wisdom of MIC deputy president M Saravanan. His recent involvement in Brickfields’ Little India highlights a brand of leadership grounded in empathy, urgency, and action.

With Deepavali fast approaching, traders in Brickfields have voiced serious concerns over the safety and condition of the bazaar infrastructure.

Yet, Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun, whose constituency encompasses Brickfields, has remained notably silent.

This lack of engagement is particularly disheartening.

Just several days ago, Saravanan, the Tapah MP, visited the site alongside representatives from the Brickfields Traders’ Association.

For decades, these traders and shopowners have been the heartbeat of Deepavali celebrations in the area.

During his visit, Saravanan personally appealed to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa and DBKL Mayor Maimunah Sharif, urging them to witness the situation firsthand and take swift corrective measures.

Saravanan had rightly cautioned that the flimsy tents erected for the bazaar posed a serious safety hazard, especially in the face of unpredictable weather.

His warning proved accurate when heavy rain and strong winds led to the collapse of several tents, putting vendors and visitors at risk.

Amid this chaos, Fong’s absence was striking.

True leadership is not defined by titles; it is measured by presence and action in moments that matter.

Saravanan showed up. Fong did not.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.