Racing circuit complex proof of government's commitment to fulfill pledges

Construction of the Kedah motor racing circuit complex in Bandar Amanjaya near here, scheduled to begin in mid-September, clearly shows the state government's commitment in keeping its pledges, which are not merely rhetoric.

Kuala Muda District Youth Council chairman Sharil Hassan said he was excited about the construction of the circuit as it would be built in Kuala Muda district.

"Thanks to the Prime Minister and Kedah Menteri Besar, the construction of this circuit proves that the federal government and state government are serious about fulfilling its promises, which are not merely rhetoric.

"I also see that the racing circuit will bring a positive impact, especially from the social and tourism aspects besides generating jobs for the young people," he told Bernama.

In terms of tourism, he said it could attract local and foreign tourists through the holding of motoring sport, just like in Alor Setar and Langkawi districts, well-known for their football and sailing boats.

"Social impact can also be felt when the problem of 'mat rempit' on the road is reduced as this racing circuit will give the opportunity for them to race in an appropriate area.

"In addition to creating jobs for local youths, this racing circuit will also boost businesses involving in motor sports," he said.

However, he hoped the circuit would be fully utilised and not become a 'white elephant' project when it is ready.

Meanwhile Kedah Federation of Peninsula Malay Students (GPMS) chairman Shamsul Bahar Abd Rani was optimistic the construction of the motor racing circuit would meet the aspirations of youth in the state, who had wanted such a facility for a long time.

"The GPMS of Kedah proposes that youths interested in motor sports be equipped with the proper knowledge so that they can really utilise the racing circuit," he said, adding that community members and parents should also be given the proper information in order to support their children keen on the sport.

He said the government also needed to periodically monitor the level of utilisation for the racing circuit and set guidelines that must be complied with so as to avoid any untoward incidents.

Kedah UMNO Youth chief Datuk Shaiful Hazizy Zainol Abidin said the positive development of the circuit proved the government placed the interest of the people as a priority.

He said the efforts made by the Kedah Menteri Besar in fulfilling this pledge to the youths showed his dedication and seriousness about the matter.

"Perhaps the state government can also give the chance to all amateur and professional motorcycling associations in the state to be stakeholders for fear that this racing circuit will become too 'exclusive' and we don't want it to end up as a 'white elephant' project," he added.

-- BERNAMA