Latest news with #Brickfields
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Health
- Malay Mail
Taiwanese chemists arrested in Brickfields condo drug lab raid, RM3.29m amphetamine vape liquid seized
KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 — Police arrested two Taiwanese men who were operating a laboratory for processing drug-laced vape liquid during a raid on a condominium in Brickfields, here last Wednesday, with a seizure of drugs worth RM3.29 million. Acting Director of the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (JSJN) Bukit Aman, DCP Mat Zani @ Mohd Salahuddin Che Ali, said the raid at 10:30pm found 20 five-liter plastic containers (jelly cans) and six 0.5-liter plastic bottles containing amphetamine vape liquid. In addition, various equipment for processing drug-laced vape liquid was also found, such as a mixer, heating machine, weighing scale, sealing machine, three glass beakers, one plastic funnel, and 95 empty cartridges believed to be for filling the drug-laced vape liquid. 'Initial technical analysis found that this syndicate is believed to be processing vape liquid containing Amphetamine (Fluoroamphetamine, Paramethoxyamphetamine) which has psychoactive and toxic effects similar to ecstasy on its users. 'The adverse effects of consumption include seizures, liver failure, extreme body temperature, psychosis, brain damage, emotional disturbances, extreme addiction, and even sudden death due to heart attack or respiratory failure,' he said during a JSJN press conference at the Bukit Aman Police Headquarters, here today. Mohd Salahuddin said both suspects, aged 30 and 35, served as chemists and obtained the drug ingredients from China. He said that to ensure their drug-laced vape liquid processing activities were not detected, the syndicate used condominiums with complete security as a place to process and package the illicit substances. 'This premise was rented at RM4,100 per month, and it is believed that they change processing locations every three months, bringing in chemists from Taiwan and recruiting local workers to mislead the authorities. 'Both suspects also played a role in guarding the vape liquid processing site and delivering it to customers. They entered our country using a social visit pass and had entered the country twice, at the beginning of this year and early this month,' he said. He stated that the amphetamine drug-laced vape liquid was sold to the local market at RM180 per cartridge and internationally at around RM400 per cartridge. Meanwhile, he said that urine screening tests found both suspects negative for drugs but had past criminal records in their home country. 'We have checked the past records of both these suspects through our cooperation with the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau (MJIB) and the Criminal Investigation Bureau of Taiwan to trace their past records in their country and assist in the full investigation of this case. 'The results revealed that the first suspect had previously driven under the influence of alcohol and drugs, while the second suspect has various criminal records, including murder, drug trafficking, and firearms,' he said. The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, and action is also being taken under the Dangerous Drugs (Forfeiture of Property) Act 1988, with the seizure of a Honda AFS125 motorcycle belonging to the first suspect, valued at RM7,000. — Bernama
Free Malaysia Today
5 days ago
- General
- Free Malaysia Today
3 men jailed a year each for splashing paint on house, car
Magistrate S Mageswary ordered the three accused to serve their jail sentences from the date of their arrest on April 16. PETALING JAYA : Three men were sentenced to a year's imprisonment each by the Kuala Lumpur magistrates' court today after pleading guilty to causing mischief by splashing paint on the exterior of a house two months ago. Magistrate S Mageswary pronounced the sentence on technician Chin Zi Ping, company manager Tieu Boon Chow, and air conditioning technician Ooi Hong Leong, Bernama reported. She ordered their sentences to begin from the date of their arrest on April 16. The trio were charged with splashing paint on the exterior of a man's house, his car and motorcycle, causing RM10,000 in damage to the house at Taman Angkasa Batu 6, Brickfields, at 4.50am on March 29. The charge was under Section 427 of the Penal Code for mischief, which provides for one to five years' imprisonment, a fine, or both, on conviction. Deputy public prosecutor Nur Farhana Poad asked that all three accused receive punishment commensurate with their crime, taking into consideration the cost of losses suffered by the victim. Lawyer Nurul Diyana Basher from the National Legal Aid Foundation asked for a shorter jail sentence, as her clients had families and had apologised for their action.
Malay Mail
21-05-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Brickfields: A decade of broken promises, gentrification and cultural erosion — Thena Palaniappan
MAY 21 — Ten years have quietly passed since the demolition of the historic 100 Quarters in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur—a pivotal moment that marked the end of the last cluster of landed homes in the area. Today, while skyscrapers continue to rise and commercial interests dominate, the soul of Brickfields feels increasingly distant, obscured by unfulfilled promises, poor planning, and unchecked gentrification. The 100 Quarters, built during the British colonial era as government housing for railway workers, stood as more than just a block of homes. They were a living piece of history—a rare remaining thread that tied present-day Brickfields to its working-class roots. In late May 2015, the quarters were flattened. In return for the land, the developer was to rejuvenate Brickfields and build a space to commemorate the 100 Quarters with a RM35 million budget allocated for it. Neither the rejuvenation project nor the promised commemorative space has lived up to expectations. Instead, what remains is a garish attempt at modernisation that fails to reflect the community's spirit. The arches along Jalan Tun Sambanthan are visually jarring, lacking any connection to the neighbourhood's deep cultural and historical roots. Public amenities are in poor condition—tiles are broken, public bathrooms are scarce, and waste disposal remains inconsistent. For long-time residents, these changes feel less like improvement and more like erasure. Brickfields was not always 'Little India.' Before its branding as an ethnic enclave, it was a genuinely multicultural and tightly-knit neighbourhood. Temples, mosques, churches, and a Buddhist monastery coexisted within walking distance of one another, reflecting the diverse tapestry of Malaysia itself. In its effort to label Brickfields as 'Little India,' the authorities overlooked the need for authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainable development. Residential property values are on a downward slope, even in the newer developments. Meanwhile, commercial lots thrive—evidence that Brickfields is becoming a playground for business interests rather than a home for families. This shift has drained the area of its vitality, making it inhospitable for long-term residents and young families who might once have called it home. It doesn't have to remain this way. If the authorities and developers are willing to shift their perspective, Brickfields could transform into a vibrant cultural and community hub—one that celebrates its unique identity while providing a high quality of life for its residents. It is not too late to redirect the future of Brickfields. By recognising the neighbourhood's cultural value, investing in thoughtful infrastructure, and placing people over profit. — Bernama pic Here are several suggestions that could catalyse that transformation: 1. Make Brickfields pedestrian-friendly Closing Jalan Tun Sambanthan to vehicles after 7pm would foster a safer, more inviting atmosphere for both locals and tourists. Eventually, the entire stretch could be converted into a pedestrian-only zone—creating a vibrant, walkable space ideal for open-air dining, night markets, and street performances. 2. Relocate and expand the flower market The bustling flower market is one of Brickfields' most colorful features, but it currently suffers from overcrowding and poor infrastructure. Moving it to a dedicated, larger location would benefit both vendors and tourists, enhancing the area's appeal while preserving tradition. 3. Build a history centre or library A cultural centre focused on the past and present of Brickfields could serve as both an educational space and a tourist attraction. It would honour the community's stories—from the railway workers of the 100 Quarters to the spiritual diversity that defines the area. 4. Create more green spaces Integrating the 'River of Life' initiative with the main street could result in a scenic, environmentally conscious urban corridor. Parks, seating areas, and gardens would make Brickfields more livable and visually appealing. 5. Establish a permanent community arts space Local artists, performers, and community groups need a permanent space to showcase their work. A community art centre would enrich Brickfields' cultural landscape while offering locals a place to gather, express, and celebrate their heritage. 6. Protect Vivekananda Ashram Rezoning the historic Vivekananda Ashram as a public community facility would safeguard it from future commercial development. This would ensure that such important landmarks are preserved for future generations, not bulldozed for short-term profit. Brickfields is more than a commercial zone or a tourist trap—it is a living, breathing community with rich cultural assets that deserve to be preserved and celebrated. The failure of the RM35 million beautification project should be a lesson in what happens when development is imposed rather than envisioned collaboratively with residents. It is not too late to redirect the future of Brickfields. By recognising the neighbourhood's cultural value, investing in thoughtful infrastructure, and placing people over profit, Brickfields can once again become a place where families thrive, where history is honoured, and where the vibrancy of Malaysian multiculturalism is proudly on display.
Malay Mail
12-05-2025
- General
- Malay Mail
From Brickfields to Tumpat, Wesak Day draws crowds celebrating peace, faith and Malaysia's spiritual diversity
KUALA LUMPUR, May 12 — This year's Wesak Day celebration was marked with vibrant and harmonious gatherings as Buddhist devotees filled temples nationwide to observe religious rites. In the capital, worshippers began arriving at the iconic Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple in Brickfields from 8am to take part in ceremonies commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. The celebration also drew local visitors and foreign tourists eager to experience the occasion and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist traditions. Visitors kneel before a statue of Buddha during the Wesak Day celebration at the Sri Lanka Buddhist Temple in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur today. — Bernama pic Among them was M Rajan, 45, a Hindu, who said he attended the event to honour his Buddhist friends and learn more about their beliefs. 'Malaysia is a multicultural and multireligious country. I believe it's important for us to respect one another's faiths and celebrate together. This is one of the ways we can nurture harmony,' he told Bernama. Filipino tourist Jonathan Reyes said he visited the temple to gain a deeper appreciation of local culture and religious celebrations. 'It's nice to see how peaceful and respectful the atmosphere is. I'm not a Buddhist, but being here today has given me a greater understanding and appreciation of Malaysia's spiritual diversity,' he said. A woman says her prayers while holding incense sticks as part of Wesak Day celebrations at the Maha Vihara Temple in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur today. — Bernama pic In Selangor, visitors thronged the Fo Guang Shan Dong Zen Temple in Jenjarom, Kuala Langat, one of the main destinations and top choices for thousands of Buddhists during the annual Wesak Day celebrations. Temple manager Miao Yue, 52, said an estimated 30,000 devotees visited the temple since last Saturday, carrying out religious ceremonies and tributes marking the birth, enlightenment and passing of Siddhartha Gautama. In Perak, over at the Enlightened Heart Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Tambun, Bernama observed thousands of devotees queuing to light incense, scatter flower petals and perform the ceremonial bathing of Buddha statues, joined by foreign tourists eager to experience the Wesak Day celebration as well. Wat Siribunya Maggarama on Jalan Raja Dihilir in Ipoh was similarly packed with devotees from all walks of life, with many families arriving as early as 8am, carrying flower bouquets and necessities such as rice to be donated to the temple. Buddhists light up oil lamps as part of religious rites in conjunction with the Wesak Day celebrations at the Maha Vihara Temple in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur today. — Bernama pic In Penang, Wat Chaiya Mangalaram on Lorong Burma, Wat Buppharam on Jalan Perak, and Kek Lok Si in Air Itam were filled with visitors as early as 8am. The celebration was equally vibrant at the Malaysian Buddhist Association building on Jalan Burma, where devotees of all ages took part in religious rituals, including lighting incense and lotus-shaped candles. In Perlis, Wesak Day was marked with great enthusiasm as thousands of devotees gathered at the Perlis Buddhist Society building in Kangar for religious ceremonies led by 28 monks. Society chairman Tan Chan Sin said a float procession would be held later in the evening to add a special touch to this year's celebration. In Sarawak, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng were present to liven up the Wesak Day celebration at the Sarawak Buddhist Association building in Kuching. Buddhists mark the Wesak Day celebration with religious rites at the Wat Prachumthat Chanaram, Tumpat, Kelantan today. — Bernama pic In Kelantan, Wat Prachumthat Chanaram in Tumpat was the focal point for Buddhists from across the country, as Wesak Day was celebrated with reverence and solemnity. The temple, which has hosted annual celebrations for over 40 years, organised various religious activities including a procession of flower offerings and candlelight walks around the stupa three times, a symbolic gesture in honour of the life of Siddharta Gautama. Committee member Thom Ija, 67, said nearly 200 devotees had gathered since last night to take part in the religious rituals, which will continue until tomorrow. A visitor from Selangor, Kok, 69, said he makes the long journey each year, drawn by the temple's peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to pay tribute to the teachings of Siddharta Gautama by visiting several other temples in the area. — Bernama
Malay Mail
11-05-2025
- General
- Malay Mail
How Wesak Day became a public holiday in Malaysia and why it's sacred to Buddhists: Questions you might have, answered here
KUALA LUMPUR, May 12 — Thousands of Buddhist devotees are expected to gather at the historic Maha Vihara in Brickfields here as the temple marks not just Wesak Day sacred to Buddhists but also its 130th celebration today. Founded in 1894 by the Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society, the Maha Vihara Temple first marked Wesak Day in 1895 after the arrival of two Sri Lankan Buddhist monks. Wesak Day, observed on the full moon of the lunar month of May, commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Buddha. Malaysia's Chief High Priest Datuk K. Sri Dhammaratana said all three events occurred on the same date in different years, making Wesak Day the most sacred day for Buddhists. 'In 1961, the Buddhist community decided to appeal to the Malaysian government to declare Wesak Day as a public holiday and it was officially declared as a public holiday in 1962. 'Buddhist communities from around the world, such as Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and recently, we also have Buddhists from Bangladesh, coming to commemorate the great master,' he told Malay Mail in an interview last week. Malaysia's Buddhist Chief High Priest Datuk K. Sri Dhammaratana. — Picture by Choo Choy May On Wesak Day, Buddhist devotees typically wear white and observe the Eight Precepts — a stricter version of the Five Precepts — as a form of spiritual discipline. The Five Precepts are to: Abstain from killing living beings. Abstain from stealing. Abstain from sexual misconduct. Abstain from lying. Abstain from becoming intoxicated. The Eight Precepts contain an additional three guidelines, which are: Refrain from eating after midday: This practice is to promote simplicity and detachment from material desires. Refrain from dancing, singing, music, and unseemly shows: This is to discourage frivolous activities that distract from mindfulness. Refrain from perfumes and cosmetics: This is to encourage a simple and unpretentious lifestyle. The Maha Vihara Buddhist Temple in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. — File picture by Hari Anggara How Maha Vihara is celebrating its 130th Wesak Celebrations at the Maha Vihara today begin with the raising of the Buddhist flag, followed by prayers, hymns, and lighting of lotus-shaped oil lamps. Devotees then queue to receive blessings and a sacred string from The temple also hosts meditation sessions, religious talks, and a blood and organ donation drive that started yesterday – on the eve and day of Wesak. Buddhist devotees during the Wesak Day celebration at Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur on May 4, 2023. — Picture by Firdaus Latif Offering alms to monks is also part of the celebration, which Dhammaratana said helps devotees let go of desire and move toward spiritual happiness. 'This year, a church in our neighbourhood will also be coming forward to offer food to the monks and distribute food to devotees coming here on Wesak Day,' he said. A grand float procession will take place on May 12, starting from the temple and moving through several key streets in Kuala Lumpur. The route covers: Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad Jalan Tun Sambanthan Jalan Petaling Jalan Yap Ah Loy Jalan Hang Lekiu Jalan Gereja Jalan Raja Chulan Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock This year, the procession will skip Jalan Bukit Bintang due to a new one-way traffic system. Between 20 to 25 colourful floats featuring Buddha's life and teachings will participate in the 12-kilometre procession, which begins at 6pm and is expected to last four hours. Dhammaratana said the event usually attracts between 30,000 to 50,000 spectators annually. Devotees blessed by Buddhist monks on the floats during the Wesak Day procession at the Maha Virana Buddhist Temple on Jalan Berhala, Brickfields in Kuala Lumpur. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin 'While Wesak Day is a religious day and not a merrymaking celebration, the procession draws young people closer to Buddhism, making way for them to build up on the devotional part.' 'During the annual procession, road users are very understanding, patient and tolerant to accommodate for our celebration.' 'It is a very unique thing to Malaysia, because we have a multicultural and multi-religious society here that can work as one family,' he said.
