856 police personnel deployed as three major events converge this weekend

This weekend, Malaysia will see a total of 856 traffic police deployed to manage traffic during three major international events in the Klang Valley. The events include the Le Tour de Langkawi cycling race, the Formula 1 race at the Sepang International Circuit, and the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon. Federal Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali detailed the comprehensive preparations and deployment plans in place to ensure smooth traffic flow and public safety, preventing road network paralysis in city centres.

For the Le Tour de Langkawi, 16 officers and 146 personnel will be deployed for race team and venue security duties. The Formula 1 event will see 15 officers and 352 personnel in two shifts, with 130 personnel from outside contingents to facilitate movement around the circuit and along main routes. The Kuala Lumpur Marathon will have 327 officers and personnel on duty for Oct 3 and 4 events.

Road closures and diversions will be implemented in stages to minimize congestion, with specific start times and reopening schedules outlined for each event. For the Le Tour de Langkawi, involving a route from Muar to Putrajaya, road closures will begin at 2am on Oct 3 and be fully reopened by 11.30am. The Formula 1 event has strongly encouraged the public to use shuttle buses provided by the organiser, while only visitors with valid parking passes will be allowed to bring vehicles into the circuit area.

The department assured that emergency vehicles, including those heading to Kuala Lumpur Hospital, would remain a priority, and would be granted immediate access despite road closures. Road users were advised to follow instructions from police personnel to ensure safe and orderly traffic flow throughout the weekend.