The Malaysian Insight

BUKIT BINTANG, the once bustling city centre of the capital, is a dim shadow of its former, lustrous self.

Tourism was what gave the shopping and entertainment district its buzz but the last tourist departed more than a year ago when the borders were shut at the onset of the pandemic.

Many hotels have gone out of business while the night clubs and bars are closed. Hawkers no longer peddle their wares as people are confined to their homes.

Restaurants are open but only for take-away and delivery.

“To Let” signs can be seen on many vacant shops. 

Yet the heart of Kuala Lumpur continues to beat, albeit weakly, as it waits for the roar of traffic – both vehicular and human – to return once more. – August 14, 2021.