Nightlife often brings to mind images of bars, clubs, and crowded venues, but in many countries, it also includes peaceful public spaces where people can unwind after dark. From lakeside walks to all-night cafes and well-lit parks, the idea of stepping out safely and comfortably at night reflects a city’s approach to public life and infrastructure.
Recently, a techie, who works as a UX designer, drew attention to this contrast on X (formerly Twitter) by sharing his experience in Malaysia, where he discovered a very different kind of after-hours culture—one that felt secure, open, and accessible to everyone. His experience sparked widespread discussion in the comments, highlighting both the shortcomings in Indian cities and what could be learned from Malaysia’s urban planning.
In his tweet, the techie clarified that his idea of nightlife extended beyond pubs and bars. During a walk near a man-made lake in Cyberjaya, Malaysia, he noticed a vibrant late-night scene where families relaxed, people fished quietly, and couples conversed by the well-lit waterfront. Nearby, 24/7 convenience stores offered easy access to food and beverages. The area, he added, was clean, safe, and accessible—qualities rarely associated with late-night outings in Indian metros.
Safety and Accessibility: A Stark Contrast
Recalling his time in Bengaluru, he shared how stepping out late often drew warnings from local police rather than support. According to him, the absence of safety assurance discourages most residents from venturing out, especially women and families. Several X users echoed this sentiment, pointing out that even Tier-1 Indian cities lack public spaces that are open and secure past midnight.
One user mentioned that in India, public spots like Marine Drive and Bandstand in Mumbai, which once allowed late-night gatherings, now impose curfews and restrictions. Another noted that even lakeside walkways in areas like Whitefield, Bengaluru, are closed by 7 pm.
What India Lacks
Critics argued that Indian nightlife is often skewed toward the elite—limited to high-end pubs and five-star hotel lounges, mostly accessible to the top income brackets. Others raised concerns about public infrastructure, citing poor maintenance, lack of lighting, and unsanitary conditions in open areas. Some sarcastically added that the only public spaces open at night are reserved for bureaucrats, not the general population.
Concerns around crime also loomed large in the conversation. One user cited a recent violent crime incident on an Indian beach to emphasize how unsafe public spaces can become after dark. Others claimed that a general disregard for cleanliness and public responsibility makes it hard to maintain such spaces in India.
What Can Be Learned from Malaysia
Commenters who had visited Malaysia shared their own experiences, praising the cleanliness, polite conduct of locals, and efficient use of public amenities. Many felt that Malaysia’s success lies not just in infrastructure but in the mutual respect between authorities and citizens. One commenter advised Indian tourists to follow local etiquette—keeping noise low, not littering, and respecting the multicultural population.
The conversation also touched on the broader societal context. Some users argued that India’s large population and insufficient civic infrastructure make it difficult to offer similar experiences. Others pointed out that public spaces are often commercialized in India, filled with food stalls and crowds that dilute the serenity such areas should provide.
While cultural differences and population challenges play a role, the debate clearly reflects a growing desire for change. Better lighting, round-the-clock public spaces, and stronger emphasis on safety and maintenance could go a long way in improving India’s nightlife—for everyone, not just a select few.
Recently, a techie, who works as a UX designer, drew attention to this contrast on X (formerly Twitter) by sharing his experience in Malaysia, where he discovered a very different kind of after-hours culture—one that felt secure, open, and accessible to everyone. His experience sparked widespread discussion in the comments, highlighting both the shortcomings in Indian cities and what could be learned from Malaysia’s urban planning.
In his tweet, the techie clarified that his idea of nightlife extended beyond pubs and bars. During a walk near a man-made lake in Cyberjaya, Malaysia, he noticed a vibrant late-night scene where families relaxed, people fished quietly, and couples conversed by the well-lit waterfront. Nearby, 24/7 convenience stores offered easy access to food and beverages. The area, he added, was clean, safe, and accessible—qualities rarely associated with late-night outings in Indian metros.
I remember stepping out slightly late at Bangalore only to be scolded by the police to go back 😅
— Shardul (@pracosm) June 22, 2025
When there is no safety guarantee, you wont find people daring to do what I tried, especially when the ones supposed to guarantee your safety are telling you go away
Safety and Accessibility: A Stark Contrast
Recalling his time in Bengaluru, he shared how stepping out late often drew warnings from local police rather than support. According to him, the absence of safety assurance discourages most residents from venturing out, especially women and families. Several X users echoed this sentiment, pointing out that even Tier-1 Indian cities lack public spaces that are open and secure past midnight.
One user mentioned that in India, public spots like Marine Drive and Bandstand in Mumbai, which once allowed late-night gatherings, now impose curfews and restrictions. Another noted that even lakeside walkways in areas like Whitefield, Bengaluru, are closed by 7 pm.
What India Lacks
Critics argued that Indian nightlife is often skewed toward the elite—limited to high-end pubs and five-star hotel lounges, mostly accessible to the top income brackets. Others raised concerns about public infrastructure, citing poor maintenance, lack of lighting, and unsanitary conditions in open areas. Some sarcastically added that the only public spaces open at night are reserved for bureaucrats, not the general population.
Concerns around crime also loomed large in the conversation. One user cited a recent violent crime incident on an Indian beach to emphasize how unsafe public spaces can become after dark. Others claimed that a general disregard for cleanliness and public responsibility makes it hard to maintain such spaces in India.
What Can Be Learned from Malaysia
Commenters who had visited Malaysia shared their own experiences, praising the cleanliness, polite conduct of locals, and efficient use of public amenities. Many felt that Malaysia’s success lies not just in infrastructure but in the mutual respect between authorities and citizens. One commenter advised Indian tourists to follow local etiquette—keeping noise low, not littering, and respecting the multicultural population.
The conversation also touched on the broader societal context. Some users argued that India’s large population and insufficient civic infrastructure make it difficult to offer similar experiences. Others pointed out that public spaces are often commercialized in India, filled with food stalls and crowds that dilute the serenity such areas should provide.
While cultural differences and population challenges play a role, the debate clearly reflects a growing desire for change. Better lighting, round-the-clock public spaces, and stronger emphasis on safety and maintenance could go a long way in improving India’s nightlife—for everyone, not just a select few.
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