IPOH – Racing circuits should be used to promote not only the motorsports industry but also skills of riding a motorcycle or driving a car on the road, said former national motorcycle racer Wazi Abdul Hamid.
He said this has been done in other countries and found effective in helping to check fatal road accidents.
“We need to understand that a circuit is not just for racing but has many functions. In Europe, for example, when there is no race, the owner of the circuit will open it to the public for use to improve their driving skills.
“Indirectly, the community there is exposed to safety. We can do the same if we have enough circuits. This facility can be used to not only strengthen motorsports but also educate the public on driving skills and safety,” he told a press conference at the Youth and Sports Ministry’s (KBS) Myfit@Motorsport Klass CubPrix programme here today.
Commenting on the direction of cub prix championships, he said the sport should be expanded at the state level to ensure new talents could be unearthed to replace riders who graduated to a higher level.
“We cannot rely on national-level championships alone. If possible, every state with the cooperation of the relevant parties can organise the same tournament on a smaller scale.
“This will not only unearth young talents but also ensure that the sport continues to be popular,” he said.
He said today’s programme was organised in collaboration with KBS for 40 participants aged between 13 and 18.
The main objective was not only to tap new talents but also to educate young people to stay away from illegal racing, he said. – Bernama, March 6, 2022