SHAH ALAM - The RM20 million allocation to build one racing circuit in each state as announced by former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob was never approved in Parliament.
The Youth and Sports Ministry in a statement today informed that the allocation announced in Budget 2023 was never debated and did not receive approval.
"This is because Ismail Sabri had dissolved Parliament immediately after tabling the budget. Therefore, the budget was never channeled to the ministry for the development of the drag racing circuit as announced.
"Apart from that, the budget was announced without getting data and feedback from the ministry. RM20 million is not enough to build the racing circuit in each state," the statement stated.
The statement was issued following Ismail's previous statement where he suggested for the current government, through the ministry, continue the construction of drag racing circuits in each state as suggested by the previous government which was worth RM20 million.
He said, it is to give the youth an opportunity to be more seriously involved in motor sports through the right channels.
The ministry added that it was concerned about the safety factor and does not intend to build a racing circuit simply to have it built.
"There is no doubt that motorsport on the drag racing circuit is good and a beneficial platform for the youth. However, the safety of the riders, spectators and everyone involved needs to be prioritised.
"The ministry is always proactive and looking for other methods to ensure motor sports can continue to be carried out in a controlled and safe condition despite financial constraints currently preventing the construction of new motor circuits, especially drag racing circuits.
"Among the efforts taken is the project to upgrade and improve existing facilities under the ministry such as the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) which achieved the international specifications and the Tangkak Racing Circuit in Johor for local motor sports enthusiasts," he explained.
The ministry have also cooperated with the Motor Sports Association of Malaysia (MAM) as the parent body of Motor Sports in ensuring that the operators and organisers of this motor sport can carry out their programmes or activities on safe circuits by listing permanent circuits that were homologated and by providing minimum specifications for the temporary circuits.
In addition, the ministry through the National Youth and Sports Department (JBSN) with support from MAM is also actively developing Motor Sports Guidelines which will provide guidance on motor sports especially involving the organisation of events including drag racing.
A safe and conducive environment can be created through these efforts and further reduce the risk of racing.
"The MalaysiaActive@Motorsports programme that will be held nationwide includes activities such as racing, motor sports workshops, Basic Motor Sports Training Classes (KLASS), Accreditation and Commissioning Courses as well as an updated RAKAN MUDA programme.
"All these efforts are expected to further boost the development of motor sports in Malaysia and benefit the youths in Malaysia," the ministry said.