On the 14th and 15th of September 2024, a little karting track in Arau known as URC played host to a motorsports initiative titled “Karnival Sukan Bermotor Perlis 2024” or KSBP2024 for short. It marked a significant milestone for the track to host the event in the regional motorsports community. The two-day carnival, supported by the board of  Tourism Malaysia attracted an impressive turnout of 150 participants, with 60 competing in go-karts and 90 in motorcycle categories.

KSBP2024 stood out as a distinctive motorsports event that combined two thrilling disciplines: go-kart racing and moped bike racing, colloquially known as ‘kapcai’. This blend of motorsports was designed to honor and engage supporters, particularly from the northern region, celebrating their passion and dedication since the carnival’s inception in 2023. The event featured exciting fun races that brought together racing enthusiasts and provided a platform for local talent to shine. The KSBP2024 was the brainchild of a local motorsports group known as BRAAAP Motorsports which also operated the URC Arau facility during the period.

The event was initiated as part of the synergy plan, which required the company to combine rental services provided through its karting fleet and elevate circuit operation and motorsports activity in the region. This is aimed at promoting the grassroots level of motorsports activities for the locals to engage with and bridging the locals with a much more affordable motorsports activity to cultivate the passion needed for the motorsports culture in that part of the country.

Despite the effort, KSBP2024 was the final event organized by BRAAAP Motorsports at the URC Arau facility due to the operation of the track being halted earlier than it should have on the 30th of October 2024. The report we received indicated that it occurred due to an internal negotiation fallout between the operator and owner of the facility. The carnival was deemed a success, highlighting the popularity and distinct fan base for both two-wheel and four-wheel motorsports in the northern region.

The KSBP2024 demonstrated the strong following for motorsports in Perlis and the surrounding areas that remains to be tapped into consistently by those with the right intention to develop the scene in the region. By showcasing both go-kart and moped bike races, KSBP2024 provided a valuable opportunity for aspiring racers to gain exposure and experience to further explore the world of motorsports in Malaysia. It underscored the need for continued support and development of motorsports to cultivate future racing talents for Malaysia.

Through the vibrant atmosphere, enthusiastic participation, and competitive spirit, KSBP2024 not only celebrated the passion for motorsports but also paved the way for nurturing the next generation of racers. The success of this event is a testament to the vibrant motorsports culture in the northern region of Malaysia and the potential for future growth and achievements in the sport. We will be following closely on the development of this initiative if it ever springs back to action somewhere in 2025. Follow us for more updates and stories on the local motoring and motorsports scene and be sure to tune into our social media platforms for any upcoming events and offerings by our local industry players.