MALAYSIA’S hopes of bringing Formula One back to the Sepang International Circuit could become clearer this weekend, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim set to announce the latest developments on Sunday.
Speaking to reporters after officiating the opening of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Sheikh Tahir Jalaluddin and the launch of the Nuqaba programme on Saturday, Anwar briefly confirmed that an update on the F1 proposal would be revealed soon.
“I will announce the developments (on F1) this Sunday,” he said.
The potential return of the world’s premier motorsport series emerged after the Youth and Sports Ministry confirmed it was studying the possibility of Malaysia stepping in to host a Formula One race at Sepang, following uncertainty surrounding the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari previously said preliminary discussions had taken place, with Anwar and the ministry receiving early briefings on the possibility of bringing the race back to Malaysian soil.
He said various aspects were still being assessed before any decision is made, adding that the ministry remains committed to supporting the growth of sports, including motorsports.
The possibility of a Sepang return gained attention after reports suggested Malaysia was among several locations being considered as a replacement venue for the Bahrain GP, which has faced uncertainty due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Sepang’s potential slot could fall between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku on Sept 26 and the Singapore Grand Prix on Oct 11.
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, originally scheduled in April, were postponed following regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict.
Efforts to reschedule the Bahrain race have also faced challenges as the security situation in the region remains unsettled.
Malaysia last hosted a Formula One race at the Sepang International Circuit in 2017, ending an 18-year run that began in 1999.
The event was discontinued due to rising hosting costs and concerns over declining commercial returns.
The return of F1 would mark a major revival for Sepang, which remains one of the region’s most recognised motorsport venues.
Meanwhile, Anwar also rejected Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor's remarks on Tanah Melayu, saying Malaysia's strength lies in embracing all citizens.
Anwar said Malaysia, independent for nearly 70 years, should not have leaders making statements that could insult or exclude other communities.
“The Malaysian Chinese and Malaysian Indian communities respect the constitution and are loyal citizens.
“This is something we should embrace as our nation’s strength, not a form of weakness. We should move on as a nation instead of belittling each other."
He said while Malays were historically associated with Tanah Melayu, Malaysia's citizens came from diverse ancestral backgrounds, and all who accepted the Constitution and contributed to the country must be regarded as part of the nation.
Anwar said there is no need to show hatred and disunity when canvassing for votes, as the people are mature enough to understand what is right or wrong.
On Thursday, Sanusi, who is also PN election director, said Tanah Melayu was the only homeland for Malays, unlike other ethnic groups who, he claimed, could return to countries such as India, China or Thailand. – July 25, 2026
