KUCHING: Bengoh assemblyman Datuk Dr Jerip Susil is on a mission to make his constituency synonymous with off-road vehicle activities.
The Assistant Minister of Public Health believes that residents will gain from off-road events that can pull tourists to Bengoh.
He told reporters during a press conference in his office yesterday that most areas around Bengoh are conducive for the sport, especially the vicinity of the Bengoh Resettlement Scheme.
“Off-road vehicle activities, especially competitions have huge potential to bring foreigners to my area. I do understand that foreign competitors are a common feature in competitions organised by the local Sarawakian organisers here in the state,” he explained.
For a start, the Sarawak Automotive Racing Sports Association (Sarsa) will be organising such an event at the Bengoh Resettlement Scheme in conjunction with the Gawai Dayak celebration this year.
Event organising chairman Wilfred Yap told the press conference that the competition from May 23-24 will follow a format known as the ‘4×4 Time Attack Format.’
“As usual, we are anticipating participation not only by the local off-road vehicle enthusiasts, but those from outside the country as well. We want them to try out this new track in Bengoh and I think they will love it,” he added.
Dr Jerip has pledged a sum of RM100,000 to organisers for the event.
Meanwhile, Sarsa secretary Lucas Tan revealed that most of the marshalls officiating in the upcoming event are from the Bengoh Resettlement Scheme area.
Last month, they had undergone training to prepare for their duties in May.