Sepang businesses eye F1 windfall as race returns after seven years
THE roar of Formula 1 (F1) cars will return to Sepang after a seven-year absence, but for residents and businesses in the district, the race for economic gains may begin well before the chequered flag falls.
Sepang, Malaysia is set to welcome back Formula 1 racing after a seven-year hiatus. The return of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, scheduled for October 2-4 at the Sepang International Circuit, is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the area. Sepang Member of Parliament Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu predicts the event will generate hundreds of millions in economic value, boosting sectors such as tourism, hospitality, transport, food and beverage, and small businesses.
An international event of this magnitude can have a multiplier effect, with visitors seeking lodging, dining, and exploration opportunities beyond Sepang itself. Aiman Athirah emphasizes that the F1 event is not just a race, but a platform to showcase Malaysia as a world-class tourism destination, including attractions like the Bagan Lalang coastline, Sungai Pelek's agricultural offerings, mangrove ecosystems, and traditional villages.
The district is also known for its dragon fruit production, which covers 480 hectares and employs 265 farmers, making Sepang the largest producer in Malaysia. Aiman Athirah hopes the return of Formula 1 will not only attract visitors to Sepang but also highlight the district's agricultural and local economic contributions, positioning it as a progressive and capable host on the global motorsport stage.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
