By DayakDaily Team
SIBU, May 30: Youth must stay away from illegal street racing and “mat rempit” culture, and instead channel their passion for automotive and motorsports through legal, structured platforms that can develop skills and contribute positively to the industry, said Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.
He warned that illegal racing not only violates traffic laws but also puts riders, passengers, and innocent road users at serious risk, adding that such behaviour has led to tragic accidents and loss of lives.
“Parents need to pay closer attention to their children’s activities, especially those studying or working in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, where illegal street racing activities have been reported,” he urged in his text-of-speech.
Tiong was speaking when officiating the International Automotive Business Convention & Exhibition 2026, organised by the Sibu Automobile Repairers Association at a hotel here today, where he also praised the strong participation of industry players, technical experts, suppliers, educators and youths in strengthening the automotive ecosystem.
He said the automotive industry is rapidly evolving with advancements in digital technology, smart mobility, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence and sustainable practices.
“To remain competitive, industry players must continue innovating, upskilling their workforce and adapting to changing market trends, while using platforms such as the convention for knowledge sharing and collaboration,” he stressed.
Tiong, who is also Dudong assemblyman, also lauded Sibu’s growing role in promoting technical innovation and entrepreneurship in the automotive sector, saying it reflects the determination of local industry players to stay relevant and create opportunities for the younger generation.
“Skilled workers and technical professionals are key assets in nation-building, particularly as Malaysia transitions towards a technology-driven and high-skilled economy,” he said.
At the same time, he encouraged youth with an interest in automotive and motorsports to take part in organised events, technical training and legal motorsport activities that prioritise discipline, safety and responsibility.
He added that conventions and exhibitions like this also strengthen Sibu and Sarawak’s position as a destination for business events and industrial tourism, while contributing to the local economy and supporting small businesses and the wider community.
“Such platforms also allow participants to gain knowledge,exchange ideas and build meaningful networks,” he said, adding that collaboration between industry associations, government agencies, educational institutions and the private sector is essential for the continued growth of Malaysia’s automotive industry at regional and international levels. — DayakDaily
