SEREMBAN: The return of Formula One (F1) to the Sepang International Circuit this October presents a rare opportunity to transform Nilai from a transit town into a destination in its own right, says Barisan Nasional’s Nilai candidate Datuk Alan Lai.
Lai said Nilai’s location, just 15 to 20 minutes from the Sepang circuit, placed it in a prime position to benefit from the hundreds of thousands of domestic and international visitors expected during the race weekend.
However, he said the town would only reap the full economic benefits if the state government, local authorities, tourism agencies and businesses worked together to encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more in Nilai.
As such, he proposed an “F1 x Nilai Tourism Action Plan” centred on five initiatives to maximise the economic spillover from the race.
“I call on the state government, local authorities, tourism agencies and the business community to work together in launching an action plan to maximise the economic spillover from this world-class event,” he said in a statement on Monday (July 27).
Among the proposals is a “Stay in Nilai” accommodation initiative, under which hotels and homestay operators would offer F1 travel packages combining accommodation, shuttle services to the circuit and vouchers redeemable at local businesses.
Lai also called for a “Nilai Night Festival” during the race weekend, featuring night markets, food streets, live performances and music events to showcase the town’s food culture and nightlife.
He further proposed introducing a “Visit Nilai Pass” in collaboration with shopping centres, premium outlets, cafés, restaurants and tourist attractions, offering discounts to encourage visitors to spend more time exploring the town.
Another proposal is an “Experience Nilai” tourism trail featuring kampung heritage tours, food trails, café-hopping routes, durian-tasting sessions and eco-tourism activities aimed at persuading visitors to extend their stay.
Lai also suggested establishing an “F1 Nilai Task Force” comprising representatives from the state government, local authorities, tourism agencies, chambers of commerce and youth organisations to coordinate transport, visitor services, promotions and volunteer programmes.
“Formula One lasts for only a few days, but the economic benefits and international exposure can leave a lasting legacy.
“We must seize this opportunity by transforming Nilai into an essential part of every visitor’s F1 experience - not simply a place they drive past, but a destination they choose to discover and return to,” he said.
Lai also invited residents, entrepreneurs, young people and visitors to contribute ideas through a “Suara Nilai” initiative, saying public input could help develop a sustainable F1 tourism economy that creates jobs, supports local businesses and raises Nilai’s profile as a tourism destination.
