KUCHING: Malaysia’s return to the Formula One (F1) calendar this October could provide a timely boost for the proposed Gedong Circuit, with the facility well-positioned to become a regional motorsports hub rather than chase the sport’s top tier, according to sports analyst, Datuk Dr Pekan Ramli.
While describing Malaysia’s hosting of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix as a one-off arrangement, Pekan said the opportunity could reignite interest in motorsports and create long-term benefits for projects such as the Gedong Circuit.
“Malaysia returning as the Formula One host could indirectly benefit regional projects like the proposed Gedong Circuit in Sarawak.
“It would certainly help raise enthusiasm for motorsports, attract corporate sponsorship and boost tourism,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted.
However, he cautioned against equating the temporary hosting rights with a permanent return of Formula One to Malaysia.
Pekan explained that Bahrain remains the rightful host of the race and had only agreed to relocate this year’s event to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) because of the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Under the agreement, Bahrain will continue to bear the annual Formula One hosting fee of about USD70 million, while retaining revenue from ticket sales.
Malaysia, meanwhile, is only responsible for preparing the circuit, including an estimated RM16 million in track improvement works, while standing to benefit from increased tourism, hospitality, transportation, business activities and global exposure.
“This arrangement does not mean the hosting rights will automatically remain with Malaysia next season.
“However, Malaysia must once again demonstrate its technical capability and readiness in organising a Formula One race. A successful event would strengthen the country’s credentials should it decide to pursue Formula One hosting rights again in the future,” he added.
Turning to Sarawak’s proposed Gedong Circuit, Pekan said the project should focus on becoming a sustainable regional venue rather than aspiring to host F1.
He noted that while bringing premier events such as F1 or MotoGP to Borneo would involve significant logistical challenges and financial commitments, the Gedong Circuit could realistically host regional motorcycle championships and Formula 3 races.
“Formula 3 and other regional motorsports events could be organised at Gedong, allowing it to develop into a motorsports hub for Borneo,” he said.
Beyond racing, Pekan believes the circuit could become the foundation of a broader motorsports ecosystem that benefits not only Sarawak but also neighbouring Kalimantan in Indonesia.
He said the facility could provide local youths with hands-on technical and mechanical training through workshops and collaborations with technical institutions, exposing them to vehicle tuning, diagnostics and repairs.
The circuit could also open pathways into motorsports engineering, including race car preparation, mechanical and electronic engineering, as well as data analysis.
In addition, Pekan said training programmes could be developed for track marshals, safety personnel, timekeepers and other race officials, while creating opportunities in event management, logistics, marketing and hospitality.
He added that the long-term vision should also include identifying and nurturing talented Sarawakian drivers and riders capable of progressing to higher levels of competition.
“The ultimate goal is to develop local talent and create opportunities for Sarawakians to build careers across every aspect of the motorsports industry,” he said.
