KUALA LUMPUR – As illegal racing continues to run rampant in the country, Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) president Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir believes the government’s plan to build drag circuits in each state will definitely help curb the problem.
He told The Vibes that the motorsports fraternity welcomes the idea as it would also help boost the sport in Malaysia.
He said such a step is needed as many have lost their lives due to illegal racing in Malaysia.
“We have seen many untoward incidents happen due to illegal racing, especially the accidents in Georgetown and Pasir Gudang recently where six teenagers lost their lives,” he said.
However, Mokhzani said the most important aspect of the government’s plan is to ensure the circuits meet safety standards.
“What we want to have in motorsports is a culture of safety and discipline that will drive people to come off racing on the streets to racing in purpose-built facilities,” he said.
“Preparing a proper and safe outlet for them to race is better than increasing fines and prison sentences for illegal racers.
At the Dewan Negara recently, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Jonathan Yasin said the government plans to table amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 which included actions against spectators of illegal races and penalties on workshops that motorcycles.
“We need to educate people on driving and riding safety.
“Ensuring that the racing facilities are built according to safety standards will inculcate a culture of safety in people.
“When SIC first opened, the level of professionalism and awareness for safety among the support staff, mechanics, right up to the riders and drivers increased.
“That is what we want to do by collaborating with the Youth and Sports Ministry and any other parties that want to build racing circuits in the country,” said Mokhzani.
Meanwhile, SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif echoed Mokhzani’s call to ensure the facilities were built up to safety standards.
“The government’s plan is a good initiative to help Malaysian motorsports. But safety aspects of races are something we need to address.
“To have racing facilities across the country is definitely a good thing as there should be more venues for people to get involved in motorsports,” he said.
Azhan said plans to build a drag strip at the Sepang circuit were always in the pipeline but had to be put on hold due to budget constraints. – The Vibes, August 18, 2022
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