SERDANG, Aug 1 — Interest-based activities that evolve into lifestyles can create new economic opportunities and open up business prospects for communities and the creative industry, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
He said the growth of communities from small gatherings into international-scale events such as the 15th Art of Speed Malaysia Festival demonstrates how hobbies can develop into ecosystems that generate economic value.
“Some community activities that begin as lifestyle pursuits can inspire positive change within our communities and contribute to the development of the state and the nation.
“They can evolve into economic drivers or become an identity for a particular group or community,” he said when officiating the 15th Art of Speed Malaysia Festival at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) here today.
Amirudin said the growth of interest-based communities shows that they have the potential to create new economic opportunities and innovative products.
“I believe this is part of our way of life that not only brings together collections, gatherings, lifestyles and shared interests, but also creates new economic opportunities, new products and many other possibilities.”
He added that Selangor, as a metropolitan and cosmopolitan state, must continue embracing its diverse communities and lifestyles, as they can contribute to the state’s economic growth.
“With a population of about 7.4 million, Selangor is home to a wide range of communities that we should celebrate. That is why the state must preserve the concept of cultural diversity within society. We celebrate, respect and appreciate one another.”
Meanwhile, state executive councillor for tourism Dato’ Ng Suee Lim said the Art of Speed Festival is expected to be one of the catalysts in helping Selangor achieve its target of attracting nine million tourists this year, with about 80,000 visitors expected to attend the event.
He said the festival has built a strong following over the years and has the potential to attract tens of thousands of visitors to the state.
“This is an annual event, and Tourism Selangor has given its full support to the organisers. It has a dedicated and sizeable fan base. Last year, it attracted 70,000 visitors, and I believe this year’s turnout will exceed that.”
The festival, held on August 1 and 2, serves as a platform for artists, fashion designers, musicians and players in the creative industry to connect.
This year’s edition features custom vehicle builders, brands and collectors from Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan, Brunei and the Philippines.
Among the main attractions are a 1945 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead owned by Hawgholic and a 1966 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead by Vise Clothing, both specially brought from Japan to Malaysia.
Also on display are nine modified and classic cars from Bangkok, along with custom vehicles built by Japan’s Garage Yoshida and Garage Defend.
