Ku Nan insists on allowing street racing despite objection

Despite criticism and objection from lawmakers, Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor insists that letting "mat rempit" to race on roads will help curb illegal betting activities, reported Star Online. The news portal quoted the federal territories minister as saying that he was aware of betting syndicates organised during the illegal races but felt that "it is one of the ways to let them do what they love". Tengku Adnan said his proposal for the government to provide motorcycle race tracks in certain areas in Kuala Lumpur for youths that were keen on the activity would remain. It was also reported that opposition lawmakers, including Segambut MP Lim Lip Eng, were left stunned when their disagreement over the plan was ignored by Tengku Adnan in a closed door meeting today. Lim said legalising motor racing would only promote betting but the minister viewed otherwise. He said Tengku Adnan, however, failed to provide details on how the plan would work but added that talks with police and other agencies on the matter were underway. Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai said the plan was a waste of public resources as police personnel and City Hall officers would be required to monitor the races. Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai had reportedly said a detailed study was necessary before implementation to ensure no traffic congestion issues arose at the designated area and that safety requirements were met. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar had last Thursday said he would be discussing the plan with Tengku Adnan as there had been no end to illegal motor racing despite enforcement efforts. – March 2, 2016.]]>