KUALA LUMPUR – The government allocated RM20 million for infrastructure upgrading works at the iconic Sepang International Circuit (SIC), said Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh.
Speaking at a buka puasa event at SIC, Yeoh said the circuit has not received any kind of monetary assistance from the government since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country.
“Infrastructure upgrading works are important during this time for SIC as there will be more international events organised this year.
“The allocation of RM20 million will allow SIC to upgrade their current facilities, which would attract event organisers – both internationally and locally. This will help boost the country’s economy,” she said.
It is understood that approximately RM10 million from the funds will be directed towards resurfacing works currently taking place at the track from turn seven to 12 as part of its homologation renewal for the year to meet FIM requirements, while the remaining funds will be used for other infrastructure upgrades.
Yeoh said the government will also be providing monetary assistance for SIC’s talent development programme.
“I believe that when these young riders get the proper support, they can compete and achieve well in the international motorsport scene. We should take Hakim Danish as an example.
“Motorsports is expensive, and the ministry does not want SIC to bear the burden alone. If it is a sport, it should be developed together with the ministry,” she said.
SIC’s Hakim recently finished third in the opening race of the Red Bull Rookies Cup in Portugal, making the 16-year-old the first Malaysian to step on the podium in the championship.
Meanwhile, in regard to Formula One (F1) making a return to Malaysia, Yeoh explained that it would not be happening anytime soon.
“F1 is very expensive. We had to wait for RM20 million from the government just to upgrade the track. If we could host an F1 race we would already have done it, but for now, we can’t afford to have the races.
“For now, we will use the money for urgent fixes,” she added.
At the same time, SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif added that the monetary assistance will help the track to become a world-class facility once again.
“So far, resurfacing works have been going well, this week we have laid down the first layer.
“It is expected to be completed by April 27, just in time for the Porsche Carrera Cup taking place at the end of the month,” he said. – The Vibes, April 6, 2023
