F1: Motorcyclists Barred From Entering SIS This Weekend

SEPANG, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- Motorcyclists are prohibited from entering the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) area during the Formula 1 (F1) Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix (GP), which takes place this weekend.

SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said this was part of a new traffic management plan with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to ensure smooth traffic flow for visitors.

He said that since the circuit began operations 27 years ago, unrestricted access to all types of vehicles had proven to be the major cause of severe traffic congestion every time a mega motor sports event was held.

“From 1999 until now, we have not been very strategic in terms of traffic control as we allowed all vehicles to enter, resulting in heavy traffic flow and congestion in and out of the circuit.

“So, this time we are restricting private vehicles and prohibiting members of the public from entering the SIC on motorcycles to reduce congestion, while making it easier for police to control traffic,” he told a media conference here today.

Azhan Shafriman said only vehicles with valid parking stickers or passes would be allowed through the checkpoints and into the circuit’s parking area.

For those without parking passes, he suggested that they make use of public transport, e-hailing services and the free shuttle buses provided throughout the race weekend.

He said 115 free shuttle buses would be provided through a collaboration with Rapid KL at four strategic locations, namely Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2, KLIA Long-Term Car Park (LCTP), Mitsui Outlet Park and Bandar Enstek.

“In addition to the 115 buses at the four external hubs, SIC is also providing 30 free shuttle buses within the circuit, which will operate non-stop from 7 am to midnight,” he added.

Meanwhile, KLIA police chief ACP M. Ravi said that strict screening roadblocks and traffic diversions would be implemented at eight checkpoints starting from Friday morning.

Commenting on the police deployment, he said 700 personnel from the Selangor Contingent would be assigned to manage traffic flow and conduct patrols around the circuit to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors.

“Not only certain zones, all areas within SIC require a valid ticket for entry. My advice is that, if you do not have an event ticket or a vehicle parking sticker, don’t come because you will surely not be allowed to enter and will be turned away immediately,” he added.

-- BERNAMA