Sepang, March 11, 2010: For 120 National Service (NS) trainees, the Malaysian round of the Formula One race will indeed be a memorable event. 

 

The trainees will be part of a team of volunteers at the Sepang International Circuit during the Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix 2010 (PMGP), which takes place from April 2 to April 4.

 

“The first group of 120 trainees will be volunteering at the information centres, customer services and will also be on duty as usherers during the event,” said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi at the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and National Service Training Department here today.

 

The National Service Training Department (NSTD) has agreed to offer the services of the NS trainees as volunteers at PMGP 2010 this year. The memorandum was signed by SIC CEO Ahmad Razlan Ahmad Razali and NSTD was represented by its director-general, Datuk Haji Abdul Hadi Awang Kecil. 

 

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Ahmad Zahid, SIC chairman Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir and National Service Council chairman, Datuk Dr Tiki Lafee. Ahmad Zahid said the NS volunteers programme for the PMGP is the first of its kind, thus it is a defining historical moment in the history of the Malaysian Formula One event.

 

Meanwhile, Mokhzani said, since the NS volunteers would have undergone a systematic and comprehensive training programme at their respective camps, he is confident that the NS volunteers will be able to continue the F1 Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix’s tradition of excellence and glory.

 

“Every year, the Malaysian organizers of the Formula One race received praises from the FIA, especially with regards to the work ethics and the high level of courtesy extended to all guests from the F1 community.

 

“This is the result of a team effort between the SIC and the volunteers. The cooperation and support from all staff, the majority of which are the volunteers, has helped to strengthen and boost Malaysia’s good reputation among the world’s communities,” said Mokhzani.

 

He added that many members of the public are unaware that many of the volunteers at the circuit are professionals such as surgeons, accountants, auditors, managers, engineers and pilots.

 

“They participate in the event because of their passion for the sport and to support the national agenda. Thus I would like to take this opportunity to convey my sincere gratitude to them,” he said.

 

Ahmad Zahid said that the Ministry is extending its full support for the event, and there will be a spectacular air show by the Royal Malaysian Air Force at the PMGP 2010 launch.

 

“But this would depend on the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s approval,” he added.

 

The Formula One Malaysian Grand Prix would also see involvement of the Armed Forces Medical Corps.

 

“The medical team received praises from the FIA for their efficiency and their speed in extricating drivers when an accident occurs. Their proficiency and adaptability in times of emergency is definitely exemplary,” said Mokhzani.

 

This year,, Malaysia will host the third round of the Formula One World Championship this season, which will begin in Bahrain tomorrow, followed by round two in Melbourne, Australia from March 26 to March 28.