SEPANG: The Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia has drawn families to Sepang, uniting long-time fans on an annual outing with young children experiencing motorsport for the first time.
Apart from the track action, parents and children gathered to soak up the atmosphere together.
Technician Mohd Najhan Madnor, 38, drove from Johor Bahru with his family in a travelling party of eight, continuing a tradition he looks forward to every year.
Despite estimating his spending at more than RM1,000, Najhan said the trip was worthwhile.
“It is worth it. I come to the Malaysian GP every year,” he said.
“The atmosphere is fantastic.”
Travelling in a large group was also straightforward, and Najhan described the journey and entry arrangements as smooth.
“There were no problems with the queues. Everything was easy,” he said.
For Shameer Ishak, 30, and his wife Syasya Roslan, 32, the motivation was closer to home – their three-year-old son, Emir Areez.
The couple travelled from neighbouring Nilai, Negri Sembilan, to let Emir experience the bustle surrounding the motorcycles he loves.
“It is fun. There are so many people. We mainly came for our little one because he likes motorcycles and things like this,” said Shameer, who works as a ground crew member.
“He likes the loud sounds. That is why we brought him.”
The couple had not bought tickets when interviewed, having come to experience the atmosphere, and had spent RM30 on parking.
Syasya, an accountant, said the shuttle buses made the outing easier to manage with a young child.
“The shuttle buses make it easier. Even with a small child, there are no problems,” she said.
While the couple were taking in the surroundings with Emir, Najhan will stay overnight before heading back to Johor Bahru after the race on Sunday.