KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 4 — The return of Formula 1 (F1) to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) after a nine-year absence has not only delighted motorsport fans but also provided an opportunity for about 40 local traders to earn an income through the Karnival Litar Rasa Madani.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the carnival, held at the G Hillstand at SIC in conjunction with the 2026 F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix (GP), brought together local traders offering a variety of food and beverages, including snacks and light refreshments.

He said that the lively atmosphere at the circuit also gave visitors an opportunity to enjoy local fare while watching the race and, at the same time, supporting local traders.

“I took the opportunity to visit the G Hillstand at the Sepang International Circuit, which accommodates most of the Madani ticket holders, while meeting F1 fans.

“The atmosphere here is lively, with an interesting view of the circuit as well as the Karnival Litar Rasa Madani While enjoying the race at the circuit, visitors can also enjoy a meal and support our traders!” Anwar said in a Facebook post today.

The Prime Minister added that the organisation of the Karnival Litar Rasa Madani was one of the efforts to ensure that the excitement surrounding F1 also generated economic benefits for local traders.

“My appreciation to the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) and all agencies involved in making this carnival a success, thereby ensuring that the excitement surrounding F1 also brings greater opportunities for local traders,” he said.

In July, F1 confirmed Malaysia as the host of the Gulf Air Bahrain GP, from Oct 2 to 4, following an agreement between Formula 1, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and the governments of Malaysia and Bahrain.

The return of F1 to Malaysia followed discussions and cooperation involving His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and King of Bahrain, King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa; as well as the two governments, to retain the Bahrain GP on the 2026 F1 calendar, after the race was cancelled earlier this season due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

Malaysia previously hosted the Malaysian GP at SIC from 1999 to 2017, before being dropped from the F1 calendar. — Bernama