Sepang International Circuit “Night Lights”

Sepang international circuit (SIC) was a vision of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad of which was made a reality back in 1999.  After almost 20 years in existence, it is still regarded as one of the best motorsports circuit in the world. No small feat coming from the management and staffs of SIC lead by Chairman, Tan Sri Azman Yahya and SIC CEO, Dato’ Razlan Razali.

Today, that very person who made SIC a heaven for countless motorheads in and out of Malaysia, launched a new offering from SIC, the “Night Lights”. SIC is opening up the 5.543 Kilometer track to motorsports organizers and the public to use when the sun sets.

According to Tan Sri Azman, the circuit have installed 64 light poles measuring a minimum of 17 meters to 43 meters with a consistent illumination power of 150 lux throughout the circuit. The position of the poles and the lights were designed that all part of the circuit has the same illumination intensity. This is very important especially for motorcycle riders so that they can judge the braking zone, cornering apex and acceleration zone perfectly. The design and location of the poles have been approved by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) and International Automobile Federation (FIA).

Unfortunately , the lux level does not meet the requirements of Formula 1 (which Dr. Mahathir hinted may make a comeback) or MotoGP which require higher lux level for broadcasting purposes.

Tan Sri Azman further adds that SIC has been fully booked at an average of 98% a year for the past couple of years, thus the initiative to install the circuit with lights serve two main purposes – first to allow SIC to sell more track time as demand for track time especially weekends are extremely high. Secondly, to allow night racing which is very popular here in Malaysia.

At the same event, Tun Dr. Mahathir also officiated a full-fledged clinic inside the vicinity of the circuit. Started in May last year, the clinic provides medical services not only to track users and staffs but also to the general public surrounding the Sepang area. Opening hours are from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, seven days a week.

According to Dato’ Razlan Razali, the clinic has received certification from the Health Ministry (KKM) on 17^th May 2018. It is currently managed and operated by Medic Qaseh. Some of the services provided include X-ray, ultrasound, ECG and also ambulance service. The clinic is manned by a qualified doctor, a physiotherapist on duty and nurses. It is also involved with medical tourism and have been getting patients from overseas for the wellness programme.

Photos Credit: Jao Visuals