Brickfields: The Little India of Kuala Lumpur

• HelloSelamat sejahtera
  [suh-lah-mat say-ja-teh-rah]
• GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [suh-lah-mat ting-gal]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoTidak
  [tee-dak]
• Please/You're welcomeSila
  [see-lah]
• Thank youTerima kasih
  [teh-ree-mah kah-see]
• Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [mah-ahf]
• How are you?Apa khabar?
  [ah-pah kah-bar]
• Fine. And you?Baik. Dan awak?
  [bah-ee. dan ah-wahk?]
• Do you speak English?Boleh bercakap Bahasa Inggeris?
  [boh-leh bur-chah-kap bah-hah-sah ing-guh-rees]
• I don't understandSaya tidak faham
  [sah-yah tee-dak fah-hahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, sila
  [sah-yah in-geen muh-lee-hut muh-new, see-lah]
• I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sah-yah tee-dak mah-kan dah-ying]
• Cheers!Kampai!
  [kam-pai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, sila
  [sah-yah in-geen muhm-bah-yar, see-lah]

• Help!Tolong!
  [toh-long]
• Go away!Pergi jauh!
  [per-gee jow]
• Call the Police!Panggil polis!
  [pahng-geel poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Panggil doktor!
  [pahng-geel dohk-tor]
• I'm lostSaya sesat
  [sah-yah suh-saht]
• I'm illSaya sakit
  [sah-yah sah-keet]

• I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sah-yah in-geen muhm-buh-lee]
• I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat-lihat
  [sah-yah huhn-yah muh-lee-hut-lee-hut]
• How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [buh-rah-pah har-gahn-yah]
• That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [ee-too tuhr-lah-loo mah-hahl]
• Can you lower the price?Boleh kurangkan harga?
  [boh-leh koor-ang-kahn har-gah]

• What time is it?Pukul berapa sekarang?
  [poo-kool buh-rah-pah suh-kah-rahng]
• It's one o'clockPukul satu
  [poo-kool sah-too]
• Half past (10)Pukul setengah (10)
  [poo-kool suh-tuh-ngah (sepuluh)]
• MorningPagi
  [pah-gee]
• AfternoonPetang
  [puh-tahng]
• EveningMalam
  [mah-lahm]
• YesterdaySemalam
  [suh-mah-lahm]
• TodayHari ini
  [hah-ree ee-nee]
• TomorrowEsok
  [eh-sok]
• 1Satu
  [sah-too]
• 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
• 3Tiga
  [tee-gah]
• 4Empat
  [uhm-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Enam
  [uh-nahm]
• 7Tujuh
  [too-joo]
• 8Lapan
  [lah-pahn]
• 9Sembilan
  [suhm-bee-lahn]
• 10Sepuluh
  [suh-poo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?Di mana...
  [dee mah-nah]
• What's the address?Apakah alamatnya?
  [ah-pah-kah ah-lah-maht-nyah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Boleh tunjukkan saya (pada peta)?
  [boh-leh toon-jook-kahn sah-yah (pah-dah peh-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Bila bas seterusnya?
  [bee-lah bahs suh-teh-roos-nyah]
• A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ....)
  [sah-too tee-keht (keh)]

Brickfields, known as 'Little India', has its roots in the late 19th century when it began to develop as a settlement for Indian laborers who came to work on the construction of the railway. The area became a hub for the Indian community, with the establishment of shops, temples, and homes, reflecting their culture and traditions. This migration was part of the larger movement of indentured labor across British colonial territories in Southeast Asia.

As Kuala Lumpur expanded in the early 20th century, Brickfields evolved into a bustling neighborhood. The development of the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station in 1910 further cemented its importance as a commercial and transportation hub. The architectural styles of the buildings from this era showcase a blend of colonial influences and local materials, contributing to the unique character of Brickfields.

After World War II, Brickfields saw a resurgence as the Indian population flourished, leading to the establishment of various cultural organizations and religious institutions. Temples such as the Sri Kandaswamy Kovil, which was built in the early 1900s, became focal points for the community, celebrating festivals that attract locals and tourists alike. This period also marked the rise of Indian cuisine's popularity in the area, with numerous eateries offering traditional dishes.

In recent decades, Brickfields has experienced significant gentrification, with new developments and a surge in tourism. The introduction of the MRT line has improved accessibility, prompting an influx of new businesses and residents. While this has revitalized the area, it has also raised concerns about the preservation of its cultural heritage. Efforts are ongoing to maintain the neighborhood's unique identity amid rapid modernization.

Today, Brickfields is celebrated for its vibrant multicultural atmosphere, showcasing a blend of Indian, Malay, and Chinese influences. The annual Thaipusam festival draws thousands to the Batu Caves, while the neighborhood's streets come alive with cultural events that highlight the rich tapestry of Malaysian society. This cultural significance plays a crucial role in shaping Kuala Lumpur's identity as a melting pot of traditions.

Brickfields is conveniently located just south of Kuala Lumpur's city center. If you're arriving via public transport, the Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral) station is your best bet. From KL Sentral, Brickfields is a short walk away, or you can catch a taxi or rideshare. The area is also accessible by the LRT, with the KL Sentral station serving as a major interchange for the LRT, MRT, and KTM Komuter lines. Buses from various parts of the city frequently stop at KL Sentral as well.

Brickfields is quite walkable, with many attractions within a short distance. For public transport, the LRT and MRT stations provide easy access to other neighborhoods. Buses also run through the area, but they can be less reliable. Alternatively, biking is an option, with several rental services available. Taxis and rideshare apps like Grab are widely used and provide a convenient way to navigate the neighborhood and beyond.

Brickfields is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, particularly near the outskirts of the neighborhood. While violent crime is rare, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places. Areas around KL Sentral can be busy, so stay alert. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services. There are several hospitals and clinics in and around Brickfields, including the Kuala Lumpur Hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or mosques. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, such as the Buddhist temple, be mindful of dress codes. Public Transport: Do be courteous on public transport and give up your seat to those in need. Don't eat or drink on trains or buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a nod. A handshake is common, but be aware that some may prefer not to shake hands. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and ask for recommendations. Don't waste food, as it's considered disrespectful.

To experience Brickfields like a local, explore the vibrant street food scene, particularly along Jalan Thambipillay. Visit the Little India area for authentic Indian cuisine and shopping. Engage with local vendors and shopkeepers, who are often happy to share their stories and recommendations. Consider visiting the Buddhist temple, Thean Hou Temple, which is a beautiful cultural site. Don't miss the chance to take part in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Malaysian dishes.