The Malaysian GP - should you go?

In a separate interview, we had the chance to speak to SIC's Chairman, Dato' Mokhzani. This down-to-earth man, known as "the big boss", is also the second son of ex-Malaysian Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir.

Of course we've improved. If you think about it, the circuit is an outdoor facility that's exposed to the elements, come rain or shine. The wear and tear after all the years is inevitable - hence, we've upgraded and refurbished most facilities.

When Bernie came in last year, it just so happen that he mentioned the word "shabby" to describe the pre-renovated SIC at a press conference, which got the attention of the papers and was - unfortunately - sensationalised. Well we held a discussion session with him immediately after that, and it was a productive one whereby he understood the situation and even gave his recommendations.

We've set aside some S$20 million to refurbish the entire Sepang International Circuit too, but in phases. You will see most of it when you attend the upcoming race. Most importantly, we have already resurfaced the track.

Anybody who said they're expecting the same outcome as last year will just be lying and bluffing to themselves! There's no doubt the current economic slowdown is taking a toll on ticket sales, corporate tickets and corporate sponsorship. But we have a race to host that's being paid for by the Malaysian government, so we have to ensure it's promoted and handled properly to make the event a success.

To bring people to the race, we're hosting concerts and a host of fringe events just to make sure it's worth every single cent they're paying for the ticket. Hopefully, the events will help pull in more crowd.

No F1 race is ever similar to the year before, and with the new cars and new rules, it's almost like racing in a whole new series this season!

The experience will be much, much better than 2008 for sure, with all the events lined-up at the Sepang International Circuit and KL itself. So if you're in the city, just soak in the atmosphere and enjoy yourself.

Plus with the strong Singapore dollar, it's relatively inexpensive for Singaporeans to drive up North. And yes, the prices of food on race day will still remain the same as before...

It was my pleasure. Will see you at the race then!

Credits: Story by Azfar Hashim, pictures by Jeremy R. Chua. Venue pictures courtesy of Sepang International Circuit.