The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will be fully closed from Sept 7 to allow repair and upgrading works to be carried out ahead of the Formula 1 (F1) Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari said.
He said the works would cover not only the racing track but also other facilities at the circuit, including spectator seating, toilets and other related infrastructure, to ensure Malaysia presents its best image on the international stage.
“The repair works are not only for the track but also the seats, toilets and all elements so that our country’s image can be elevated at the global level,” he said after presenting a contribution to the Kedah Elite Media Club (KMEK) here today.
He said SIC would be closed completely from Sept 7 and would not be available for external rentals during the upgrading period.
On preparations for the F1 event, Mohammed Taufiq said three committees had been established, comprising a main committee, technical committee and a subcommittee covering eight to nine areas to ensure preparations run smoothly.
The technical committee also holds meetings every Tuesday, with the outcomes subsequently presented at Cabinet meetings, he said.
He added that an agreement had been signed between SIC and Bahrain International Circuit covering ticket sales, parking and other aspects of the event.
He said protocol, international affairs, immigration and other relevant agencies had also coordinated their preparations to facilitate the event.
Mohammed Taufiq said the ministry also wanted the F1 event to generate positive economic spillovers for Malaysians during the three-day event from Oct 2 to 4.
He said members of the public had also been proposed to be allowed to enter SIC a day before the race to experience the atmosphere at the circuit, while the launch of F1 volunteers is expected to take place next week.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Taufiq said the Youth and Sports Ministry would prioritise athletes’ health amid worsening haze conditions.
He said the ministry would follow advice and guidelines based on the Air Pollutant Index readings and assess whether conditions posed a risk to athletes.
However, he said the haze would not affect preparations and training for athletes, particularly those preparing for the upcoming Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
