Hanoi:On the day of the Singapore Grand Prix qualifying rounds, the journey from Nicoll Highway to Promenade brought attendees to the Porsche ARbox Carrera Cup Asia paddock, where Malaysian driver Naquib Azlan participated alongside fellow Malaysians Douglas Khoo and Datuk Adrian D'Silva. The event offered a mix of racing and entertainment, highlighting Singapore's unique approach to hosting Formula One (F1) events.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Singapore's Grand Prix Season stretched from October 2 to 11, integrating various activities such as shopping, dining, and entertainment with motorsport events. The city provided experiences like Adidas motorsport pop-ups, the Porsche Raceborn Fest, and the Gran Turismo World Series, appealing to automotive and esports fans alike. This strategy not only maximized the appeal of the Grand Prix but also included significant business events, such as the Milken Institute Asia Summit and the TOKEN2049 crypto conference, drawing a diverse audience to the city.

For Malaysia to host F1 successfully, it must consider both the financial and experiential aspects of the event. Attractions in Malaysia, such as Langkawi, have caught the attention of F1 drivers, indicating potential tourism opportunities. Drivers like George Russell and Carlos Sainz have combined leisure with training, showcasing Malaysia's appeal beyond the racetrack.

To attract visitors, Malaysia would need to create travel packages and ensure reliable transport connections, linking the race to Kuala Lumpur and other destinations. Such coordination, inspired by Singapore's model, could enhance visitor experiences and benefit local businesses.

Financial planning is crucial for Malaysia's aspirations. Determining who will fund the event, which businesses will invest, and what benefits they expect is essential. The economic impact must be assessed to ensure that public spending provides value, considering whether the event stimulates additional activities.

Malaysia's challenge is to develop a coordinated plan that combines racing with reasons for visitors to extend their stay and spend money. Without a clear strategy and committed partnerships, the dream of a permanent F1 return remains uncertain.