PETALING JAYA, Aug 27 — Malaysia should capitalise on the upcoming Formula One (F1) Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) to showcase its stability, international standing, and ability to stage world-class events at short notice.
The Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah said Malaysia’s ability to step forward when the international community needs support and stability also reflected the country’s role in a peaceful and cooperative ASEAN.
The opportunity went beyond motorsports, offering Malaysia a platform to demonstrate its capabilities and values to the world while strengthening its position as a destination for major international events.
“What I hope to see Malaysia do well is that it showcases that when the world needs help, the world needs stability, ASEAN and Malaysia are the ones that can raise their hand for that.
“We are able to hold together as an ASEAN friendship; we are a peaceful nation, and we just want to have fair trade. That’s what we are going to do for the world,” His Highness said in response to a question from the moderator at the NADI Connecting Wellness, Fitness, and Sports With RMS event, before officiating the programme today.
Meanwhile, Tengku Amir noted that Malaysia’s heritage as a trading nation also reflected its openness and ability to connect with the international community.
“We are a heritage of traders, not colonisers. So it shows the world that we can host world-stage events on two months’ notice, no problem. We can do this,” said His Highness.
Tengku Amir also hopes the government will take full advantage of the international attention surrounding the race to promote the country’s tourism offerings, particularly in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year.
Malaysia will host the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at SIC from October 2 to October 4, marking the return of F1 racing to Sepang nine years after Malaysia last staged a Grand Prix in 2017.
The arrangement between F1, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain allows the Bahrain GP to be staged in Malaysia after the race could not be held at its original venue due to the ongoing West Asian conflict.
Today’s event brought together 50 wellness, fitness, and sports leaders with His Highness to connect voices, strengthen the community, and build a shared direction for the sector.
