THE hour hand of the clock showed 8pm local time. Although the hour was not very late, activities in George Street appeared to be slowing down. Only the cafes and shops were still busy. The roar of cars had started to abate. In their place came the light of many lamps which makes the atmosphere at night in George Town differ from other places.

Two people could still be seen worshipping at the Mahamariamman Temple in Lebuh Queen not far from the