Call for support to set up go-kart facility

GO-KART aficionados are seeking the support of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, or the private sector to construct a proper go-kart facility in Brunei, which can help improve the national economy.

Abdul Khaled Abd Latip, chairman of the Go-Kart Prix 2008, said that a high standard go-kart track would benefit the local economy with the participation of international go-kart racers to the country, thus promoting the local sporting event to an international event.

Furthermore, it would help encourage the development of local businesses, especially food stall vendors, hotels and other businesses in the hospitality sector, he said during the Go-Kart Prix 2008 at the Tutong Community Hall yesterday.

"Brunei has the potential to make it into the international level once we have a standardised facility, and are able to invite international go-kart racers to the country, in the long term, we hope to be a part of the Asean calendar," he said, adding that the facility would also minimise the costs of hosting an event.

Despite other challenges such as acquiring sponsors, Abd Khaled plans to conduct the go-kart racing event twice a year.

The event also provided youths a platform in showcasing their driving skills ability and spend their recreational time more positively.

"Illegal street racing is a major concern in the country, as youths have been involved in such activities, so we must take note and create a facility that would cater towards youth," said Abdul Khaled.

Several go-kart racers during the event echoed the same sentiments, including Zaini Hj Talib, a participant of the Water Cooled/Air Cooled 100cc race.

He said that the facilities were needed to ensure proper safety standards and should not be located in heavily populated residential areas.

Zaini said that the Jerudong Park go-kart were not up to the standards of international tracks, as the course is too short.

Another local go-kart driver, Robin Koh, said that he was first involved with remote control car racing 10 years ago, but is now taking up go-kart racing for the thrill of driving a real go-kart. "Any country has a potential for go-kart racing, but how to produce this potential if they do not have a proper permanent track."

"Without it, how can you show your talent in this sport and how can we train and improve our driving skills and this goes the same to any sport," added Koh.

Koh has also participated in competitions around Asia and hopes that Brunei can produce a go-kart racing track similar to the one in Miri. The Brunei Times