Snowdan (right) and Liew admire a car audio system in one of the cars.
KUCHING: A proposal has been forwarded to the government to build a Grade 3 racing track in Kota Samarahan to provide a legal racing avenue and to hold international racing events.
Balai Ringin assemblyman Snowdan Lawan said the idea had been raised before and it was in fact brought up during the last State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting. A follow-up on the proposal would be brought up again at the DUN sitting this month.
“The suggestion is to build a Grade 3 racing track here like the one in Subang, Kuala Lumpur.
“It will provide a proper avenue for car racing and also to allow international events to be held here. We can attract participants from countries like Australia, the Philippines and Thailand,” he told the press after launching a showcase of ‘Merdeka Auto Carnival 2015’ at CityOne Megamall here yesterday.
OurYouth.my director and founder Dato Patrick Liew, Sarawak Auto Enthusiast Society (SAS) president Wan Asraq Arif and vice-president Kelvin Chen were among those present.
Snowdan said Kota Samarahan could be a potential area to build the track because of the huge land available.
“Once we have the land, the government needs to look into the operator (of the track) because we need someone capable to manage the place,” he added.
Liew also said it was the fourth year the SAS had held such an event to give an opportunity to young people to show their creativity in modifying and upgrading cars.
“It is an event to promote positive lifestyle among young people with the same interest to come together to strengthen bonds, share ideas and show their talents.
“This event gives the opportunity to both organisers and participants to come together and promote the local automotive sector and raise the profile of local talents,” he said.
The carnival is jointly organised by SAS, HZ Resources and Autek Kuching to give a glimpse of the upcoming Merdeka Auto Carnival 2015 to be held in August, as well as promoting it to potential participants and members of the public.
Yesterday’s event showcased automotive sports through demonstration of various disciplines such as drifting and autokhana.
Other activities included performances by Kuching Street Workout, Zumba Fitness and Aerobic Dance Performance, car auto show and car audio show.
By organising MAC 2015, the organisers hoped they would be able to work together with various governmental and corporate bodies, non-governmental and non-profit organisations and create win-win situations for all parties involved.
With the many benefits and opportunities arising from such an event, it was hoped that a more harmonious community could be created, irrespective of race and beliefs and a boost for the state tourism industry.