Kelantan: The Kelantan State Government plans to provide more recreational locations and suitable motoring activities to curb the phenomenon of 'Mat Rempit' (illegal motorcycle racing), in the grounds of Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP), here recently.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Youth, Sports, NGO and Community Solidarity Committee chairman, Zamakhshari Muhamad, stated that the move aligns with the state government's goal of comprehensively assessing social issues involving young people without prejudice. He emphasized the importance of evaluating illegal racing activities from multiple perspectives and not relying solely on enforcement.

Zamakhshari noted that, while specific statistics are unavailable to precisely gauge the extent of rempit activities in the state, arrest reports from the Royal Malaysia Police serve as the closest indicator. These reports show that Selangor, Johor, and Penang have the highest arrests, while Kelantan, Terengganu, and Perlis have the lowest.

He explained that, using these indicators, rempit activity in Kelantan is actually lower compared to other states. However, he stressed that the state government remains committed to addressing the issue seriously at the grassroots level.

Zamakhshari highlighted that young people should be seen as a national asset that requires guidance. He emphasized the need for collective efforts from all parties, including parents and educational institutions, to tackle the issue effectively.

Previously, reports indicated that the departure hall at the new LTSIP Pengkalan Chepa terminal, operational for less than a month, was turned into a racetrack by mat rempit. The activity reportedly began last Ramadan and gained attention on social media after being recorded by airport users.