KL mayor wants bikers to submit proposal for racing in city

KUALA LUMPUR: Mayor Datuk Seri Mohd Amin Nordin Abd Aziz is open to the idea of providing mat rempit a specific time and area in the city to race.

He said so far, only the bridge connecting Taman Metropolitan Batu and Kampung Batu Muda in the city was a possible site for such races.

He suggested that the bikers submit a proposal to race at the new bridge.

“We have just opened up a new bridge that connects Taman Metropolitan Batu to Kampung Batu Muda. We welcome them to put up a proposal for racing there.

“We will assist them in terms of road closures and other matters.” 

Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order director Comm Datuk Muhammad Fuad Abu Zarim said a proper discussion with the Federal Territories Ministry needed to be held on the proposal to close certain roads to allow “legal” mat rempit races.

“Not all roads can be closed for such races,” he said yesterday.

Comm Muhammad Fuad said any decision must consider the convenience of all motorists.

“It must also ensure that traffic flow in the city is not disrupted.”

Road Safety Department director-general Abd Jhafar Yusof raised concerns about traffic jams and the safety of people gathered on the pavements if such races were held.

He compared the possible races on roads to last year’s KL City Grand Prix and the problems that arose with it.

“Firstly, the traffic jam that can result from diverting traffic.

“Secondly, the audience, in terms of safety because if the races are legalised and something happens to the people around, how are they going to claim for insurance and such?

“It’s not a question of whether it should or should not be done, but about the pros and cons of having such races and how many people will benefit or have issues with the event,” he said.