Usual chaos along Jalan Masjid India comes to a halt

The iconic Selangor Mansion and Malayan Mansion in downtown Kuala Lumpur falls silent when it becomes the latest place to be put under an enhanced MCO.

KUALA LUMPUR: The sight of medical personnel in white protective suits along Jalan Masjid India, a melting pot of rich Indian Muslim culture and heritage in the heart of the city, shocked onlookers.

The usual hustle and bustle came to a halt as streets were emptied and shop shuttered as it was ringed by barbed wire after authorities imposed an enhanced movement control order (MCO) there.

The Selangor Mansion and Malayan Mansion flats, near Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman here, were yesterday placed under further restriction after 15 people there were diagnosed with Covid-19.

The two buildings are iconic of the Masjid India area, where local families, foreigners and new settlers have lived and thrived together for decades.

It is also situated next to the famed Masjid India, the first mosque built by Indian Muslim merchants in 1863 which has since gone through numerous renovations.

Masjid India is said to be the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur, where the Friday sermon is still delivered in Tamil and the congregation consists of predominantly ethnic Tamil Muslims.

The Selangor Mansion, in particular, is a spot for foodies to satisfy their cravings for the Roti Special at Mansion Tea Stall restaurant.

The special boasts two soft boiled eggs placed on top of a Roti Banjir drenched with dhal, sambal and curry. The eatery is also noted for its signature “Teh Ding Dong”.

The Malayan Mansion, about a five-minute walk away from the Masjid Jamek LRT station and a three-minute walk from Jakel Mall, is situated behind Selangor Mansion, which faces the Gombak River.

A two-minute walk heading towards Citin Hotel will bring you to the Masjid India flea market, where a walk down the sheltered pathway will lead you to a number of vendors selling fresh produce, fabrics, traditional Punjabi clothing and a variety of goods.

Bukit Bintang, the seedier side of Kuala Lumpur known for its nightclubs, a notorious flea market and sleazy nightlife, is a mere 12-minute walk from both buildings.