LETTER | On Oct 27, 2010, the unveiling of Little India, Brickfields, marked a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s cultural narrative - a celebration of pride, unity, and the empowerment of a vibrant community.
This transformation was far more than a cosmetic upgrade or urban renewal.
It was a bold affirmation of identity, a heartfelt homage to heritage, and a promise to future generations that the legacy of the Indian community would not only endure but thrive.
The success of this initiative was driven by the unwavering commitment of many, notably M Saravanan, then the deputy federal territories, whose leadership helped bring this vision to life.
In the presence of two esteemed leaders - then prime minister Najib Abdul Razak and then Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh - Little India was inaugurated as a radiant symbol of friendship between Malaysia and India, a gesture that echoed far beyond our borders.
This transformation was the result of visionary planning, persistent advocacy, and the resilient spirit of the Malaysian Indian community.
It reminded us that cultural pride and diplomatic harmony can flourish together.
Historically, Brickfields was a town shaped by labour and courage, known for its brick kilns and railway yards.
Over 150 years ago, it was a modest settlement of wooden homes with thatched roofs until a fire and flood in the 1880s led to a turning point - future buildings would be constructed with bricks and tiles.
Little India is more than its vibrant shops, food, fragrant spices, textiles and jewellery shops. It is rich in history.
Like many heritage sites across Malaysia, it deserves to be preserved - not just for nostalgia, but to deepen our understanding of who we are.
Once known locally as Batu Limabelas (15th mile), Brickfields owes its early development to Chinese Kapitan Yap Ah Loy, who established a major brickyard that supplied materials for building early Kuala Lumpur.
Later, the British colonial administration developed the area for the Malayan Railway, bringing in Indian and Sri Lankan migrant workers whose cultural legacy remains deeply rooted in the area.
Today, Little India is a living tapestry - its colourful arches, rhythmic music, sacred temples, and aromatic spices tell stories not just through words, but through experience.
It is more than a destination. It is a declaration.
The Indian community is not a footnote in Malaysia’s story; it is a vital chapter.
It is a space where elders find comfort, youth find inspiration, and visitors find wonder.
In 2015, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then prime minister Najib jointly inaugurated the Torana Gate at Little India, Brickfields - another milestone in the enduring friendship between Malaysia and India.
The gate symbolises deeper cooperation and a renewed commitment to people-to-people engagement.
As we honour this milestone, let us reaffirm our dedication to preserving heritage, uplifting communities, and ensuring that Little India, Brickfields, continues to shine as a beacon of unity, resilience, and pride.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
