Keeping the soul of Brickfields alive, one story at a time

Brickfields, a distinctive neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur, boasts a vibrant history and character that Reverend Balan Moses, a retired journalist and pastor, fondly remembers. Moses, who spent his youth in the area, vividly recalls the bustling hawker scene, where people of all backgrounds would gather to purchase food and goods. From nasi lemak to chee cheong fun, the neighbourhood offered a diverse range of culinary delights, all served by friendly vendors.

Moses also cherished the local cinemas and the diverse array of entertainment options available. One such establishment was the Lido Cinema on the former Jalan Brickfields, where residents would congregate to watch Tamil films. The area was not just a food lover's paradise, but also a hub for shopping and socializing. From clothes and sarees to furniture and sand for gardens, the hawker stalls catered to all needs.

Despite the passage of time, Moses remains captivated by Brickfields' rustic charm. He has dedicated his time to documenting the neighbourhood through memoirs and fiction, with two books already published and a third in the works. His affection for the area has led him to participate in the "Brickfields: A Place We Called Home" project, a community heritage initiative led by Project Future Malaysia.

The project includes a book and two films, capturing the essence of Brickfields through photographs, personal stories, and creative works by various Malaysian writers. The first film, "Brickfields: A Place We Called Home," is a documentary that provides an intimate look at the residents and their experiences. Interviewed in the documentary are current and former residents, including Moses himself, who shares his fond memories of the area.

The second film, "The Origins and Future of Brickfields," is a video essay that traces the neighbourhood's transformation from its origins as an industrial brickmaking area to its current status as a multifaith community and commercial hub. The project's creators hope that it will celebrate Brickfields' unique character, preserve its history, and ensure that the stories of its communities are passed down to future generations.

Reverend Moses hopes that the neighbourhood will maintain its special sense of camaraderie, even as it continues to evolve and grow.