PETALING JAYA: Sun Complex, the scene of a pre-dawn bombing that has so far left one person dead and 13 others injured, was once notorious for its seedy nightlife and red light infamy.
Over the years, it has become a thriving business hub in the city’s Bukit Bintang leisure enclave with even foreigners trading their wares and services there.
Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation vice-chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, the Bukit Bintang MP from 1974 to 1990, urged the authorities to beef up security in the area as it is a popular tourist spot.
Echoing his concern, MCA public services and complaints department head Datuk Seri Michael Chong called on the authorities to install more closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras.
Lee remembers the back lane of the complex as a hangout for muggers, drug addicts and snatch thieves.
“There were numerous cases of snatch thefts and gang-related activities but the police had the situation under control,” he said.
He added that aggressive steps were taken by the authorities in the late 90s to clean up the area of prostitution activities.
“The landscape is very different now as we can see foreigners in all sorts of businesses, including offering massage services in the area,” he said.
Chong said there were many bars, discotheques and lounges in the area.
He said the place was frequented by many local middle-aged men and foreigners.
“The place has been popular for quite some time and there have been many cases of minor fights and bar brawls.
He urged the public not to speculate about the bombing incident and to let police investigate the case swiftly.
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