KINILENS | The Little India area in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, is usually a lively place where many do their shopping, especially around October or November each year in preparation for the Deepavali festivities.

However, the atmosphere this year is different, according to traders. Many claim to be limiting their spending and trying to save, while frequent rain has further dampened sales.

The Indian community will be celebrating Deepavali on Nov 12.