The Government To Build Drag Racing Circuit In Each State

(Image credit: Theedgemarkets)

To support the development of motor sports in the nation, the government plans to construct a drag racing circuit in each state.

The idea, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, will be included in the Budget 2023, which will be presented in October.

"So far, two drag circuits have been built, in Terengganu and Melaka," he said when opening the 2022 RXZ Members 4.0 Programme at the Terengganu International Drag Strip in Gong Badak here, on Saturday (Aug 13).

With the facility available, he claimed, young people would have the chance to engage in motorsports activities in a legal manner.

Ismail Sabri also urged the youth to take part in the grassroots motorsports development initiative MyFit @ Motorsports 2022, which is run by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and involves the development of motorbike and auto sports.

He said that by taking part in the programme, they would be able to learn through classes, training, and clinics. He also added that the programme would aid in identifying fresh racing and motorsport talent for involvement in regional and international competitions.

He said that the government will always support motoring clubs' initiatives, particularly those that aided those in need, like flood victims.

(Image credit: TheStar)

"Many motoring clubs are involved in charity work.... During the flood, they helped to clean houses of flood victims.... Perhaps we can organise [a gathering of riders] every year and the government can provide sponsorship.

“In this way, we can highlight the interest of the young people, hence reduce the negative perception of riders associated with various names such as Mat Motor," he added.

Ismail Sabri thanked the event's organiser for bringing together more than 30,000 motoring enthusiasts nationwide before he concluded his remarks.