Category: Rally

MAEPS, Serdang witnessed the thrilling season finale of KBS Rally Sprint 2025, organised by X-One Motorsports Club, with over 20 rally cars battling it out on tarmac, heating up the atmosphere and captivating motorsport fans.

Inclusive Format

This edition introduced a flat-surface driving format, opening participation to drivers from various disciplines — drift, gymkhana, and circuit racing. The result was a race that was more inclusive, spectator-friendly, and appealing to all rally enthusiasts.

Car Diversity: From Classic to Modern

From the classic Toyota KE70, factory-standard Axia, Kelisa, Suzuki Swift Sport, to the iconic Subaru Impreza WRX STI, the lineup showcased the wide-ranging appeal of the event. This variety reinforces KBS Rally Sprint as a safe, practical, and affordable platform for both novice and experienced drivers.

Highlights Full of Drama

Fans were drawn to the participation of seasoned drivers Saladin Mazlan and Arish Qutb, who competed with the Subaru Impreza GC8. Unfortunately, mechanical issues forced them to retire early — proving that rallying is as much about mechanical endurance as it is about speed.

Family legacies were also in the spotlight. Ibrahim Saladin, son of Saladin Mazlan, teamed up with Shazwan Akif, continuing their father’s legacy. Similarly, Shanice Dana Udhaya & Mark Levon Gregory represented the next generation of MRU Motorsport in the Junior & Ladies categories.

The return of Wan Mohammad Nasir with a Toyota KE70 Corolla demonstrated that age is no barrier to competition. His approach, “Driving a slow car fast,” highlighted the joy of handling classic cars competitively and showed that rallying can be accessible and fun for everyone.

“Alhamdulillah, I’m blessed to have friends who are willing to help and support me. My main goal is to promote rally so new people can join without spending huge amounts but still enjoy rallying like works teams with tens of thousands budgets.

If just one or two people follow my example, I’d be very happy. I spent less than RM6,000, including the car, to build a complete rally car. A single Turbo Saladin’s car already costs more! ”

Wan Mohammad Nasir shared his philosophy.

Final Results

1. 1st Place: Mitch Chong & Muhammad Fazli Ishak – Proton Satria 2WD
2. 2nd Place: Haji Sutan Mustafa Salihin & Haji Kamarul Anuar – Subaru Impreza WRX
3. 3rd Place: Faidzal Alang & Zamri Muhamat – Mitsubishi Lancer Evo

The fierce competition between experienced drivers and high-performance machines made the 2025 edition a thrilling and unforgettable finale for spectators.

Beyond Just a Race

With official support from motorsport authorities, diverse participation, and a spectator-friendly format, KBS Rally Sprint 2025 closed the season on a positive note for Malaysian rallying, pushing it closer to mainstream recognition.

More than just a race, it’s a platform for talent development, family legacies, and competitive entertainment for motorsport fans across the nation.

The Basic Motorsport Training Class (KLASS) Rally, organised by X-One Motorsport Club, reached new heights in 2025 with a record 89 participants — its highest since launching in 2022. Entrants ranged from 18 to 52 years old, including representatives from ADTEC JTM Kuala Lumpur and Nibong Tebal campuses.

The two-day programme began at ADTEC JTM Kuala Lumpur with theory sessions, before shifting to hands-on training and race simulation at MAEPS, Selangor. The closing ceremony was officiated by Mr. Muazam Shah, Senior Assistant Director of the Recreational Sports Development Division, Department of Youth and Sports.

Led by professional rally drivers, co-drivers, officials, and Malaysian Rally crew members, the training offered a compact, practical insight into rally racing. Beyond developing drivers and co-drivers, KLASS Rally also prepares participants for roles as Rally Officials, with some set to serve as marshals in the club’s Rally Sprint X-One series this October — keeping their motorsport journey in full throttle.

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