Heed experts’ advice for plan to build race circuits in every state

Boys to men: Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah is one of the racers to have come up through the ranks beginning with the Malaysian Cub Prix Championship.

PETALING JAYA: The government plans to build drag racing circuits in every state to enhance the development of motorsports in the country.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the proposal would be included in the 2023 budget to be tabled next month as the authorities find ways to curb the mat rempit menace.

But it may be a good idea for the authorities to heed the advice of those directly involved in the grassroots motorsports development.

Two Wheels Motor Racing Sdn Bhd promotions director Ron Hogg said the motorsports industry would be happy if the move comes to fruition but said it was important to cater for all forms of racing.

“More often than not, the facility will end up as a white elephant and under-utilised,” said Ron.

“The track should be a multi-purpose one.

“It should be able to accommodate car, bike, go kart and drag racing.

“No doubt motorsports is an expensive sport and therefore the facility that is built needs maintenance, so sustainability is important to serve its purpose too,” said Ron, whose company is behind the Malaysian Cub Prix Championship that has produced world championships riders like Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah, Khairul Idham Pawi and Zulfahmi Khairuddin.

Ron, who has nearly three decades of experience in the motorsports industry, pointed out that the Tsukuba Circuit near Tokyo, Japan, is a good example of a basic track that is able to cater for all forms of motor racing.

“It is just about 2.1km long but it can host Super GT as well as motorcycle races and also serve as a training track,” he said.

“It’s the nearest track to Tokyo and just an hour’s drive away.

“Visitors are allowed to drive on the track with a licence and the fees are affordable.

“This is the kind of track we can adopt. If it’s not accessible to the public, what’s the purpose of having tracks in every state?” he asked.

There are a few mini tracks in West Malaysia while the Sepang International Circuit is the only track that can host international events.