The ugly side of Kuala Lumpur revealed

Rapid modernisation comes with a price as several areas in the nation's capital is losing its charm due to urban degeneration.

Areas in and around Jalan Tun Perak, Jalan Tun Tan Siew Sin, Jalan Tun HS Lee and Lebuh Pudu - near famous tourists landmarks such as Dataran Merdeka, Petaling Street, Central Market and Bukit Bintang - are in a sorry state.

Locals have cried foul saying they do not feel safe in those places, claiming having witnessed cases of snatch thefts, pickpockets and gang robberies.

Crime is not the only concern. The back lanes are filled with garbage, infested with rats and clogged drains. Despite the bad stench and unhygienic surrounding, food stalls, mostly manned by foreigners, continue to mushroom in the alleys especially near Jalan Silang and Kota Raya.

A recent visit by Astro Awani revealed that a high number of foreign nationals have now made this place their home.

Jalan Tun Tan Siew Sin has transformed into “Little Dhaka” as rows of shops selling carpets, CDs and food items were being manned by foreigners. When approached, the traders claimed they were employed by Malaysians to work at the shops.

Shops buzzing with business at Jalan Tun Tan Siew Sin

Security guard C.Rama, 28, said Jalan Tun Tan Siew Sin may not be safe for those who are not familiar with the area.

“I’ve witnessed cases of people being robbed here even in broad daylight. Most of the time the victims are the foreign workers,” said Rama.

RAMA: Wtinessed people getting robbed

Saifuddin Abdul Moomin, who owns a magazine stall, said those trading in the area are well aware of the crime rate.

“For people who own stalls or shops here are used to the sometimes dangerous surroundings. We know how to take care of ourselves because we know our way in and out of this place.

“But, it is not advisable for girls or those not familiar with the place to come here on their own,” added Saifuddin, 56.

SAIFUDDIN: Used to "dangerous surroundings"

College student, S. Theva, 22, admits she feels scared walking in the area.

“I don’t really feel safe walking here especially in the evening. I make sure I have my friends accompanying me,” she said.

Lecturer Dr Lim Swee Tin, a regular in the area for the past 20 years, described the whole situation as “disgusting”.

“The area was cleaner in the past. Today people are just littering everywhere and you see many people sleeping on the streets and sidewalks,” said Lim, 60.

“Back in the day, this place was different. It was vibrant and filled with life. Sadly, it is no longer the same today,” he added.