“If we have to, overnight parts from Japan.”
– Jesse, from The Fast and The Furious (2001)
LAST Saturday (May 4) night, Kuching city came to life with the Kuching Auto Rad Show 2024 (KARS24) by Fast Culture.
As enthusiasts flooded Sarawak Plaza, there was an undeniable buzz in the air – a profound energy that seemed to pulsate through the very streets of the city.
And for many, stepping into the world of KARS24 felt like being transported into the adrenaline-fueled universe of the “The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift” movie.
The atmosphere was electric, with sleek machines gleaming under the neon lights, their engines revving in anticipation of the action-packed night ahead.
As attendees wandered through the labyrinth of cars, each more impressive than the last, they could not help but feel a sense of awe and excitement.
Just like in “Tokyo Drift,” there was an undeniable sense of camaraderie among participants and spectators alike.
While such events may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I was impressed to see the large turnout at the KARS24.
Strangers bonded over their shared love for cars, exchanging stories and admiring each other’s rides with the same fervour as the characters in the movie.
The event showcased a perfect example of a community united by a common passion, coming together to celebrate the artistry and innovation of automotive culture.
It was also a testament to the enduring appeal of automotive culture and the passion it ignites in enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Whether you’re a die-hard petrol head or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of automotive design, there is something undeniably captivating about being in the presence of these machines and the people who love them.
KARS24 by Fast Culture was supported by the Sarawak Motorsports Association (SMA) and esteemed partners from across Southeast Asia.
The event transcended the traditional boundaries of automotive exhibitions and redefined what it means to be part of a passionate community.
In the eyes of SMA president Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim, KARS24 had the potential to ascend to the stature of the iconic Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF).
“SMA fully supports the organisation of KARS. I believe it is not easy, especially when it involves a high level of commitment in terms of cost and time. For this event, many came from other countries such as Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei.
“The organiser can gradually attract car enthusiasts from Japan, China, and Taiwan among others. God willing, it is possible for them to reach the level of RWMF,” he said after officiating the event.
His endorsement emphasised not only the significance of the event but also the collective aspirations of those involved.
At the same time, Fast Culture founder Adibazli Affendi said the event goes beyond just showcasing cars as it is about creating memorable experiences and fostering connections with the community.
“The success of this event speaks volumes about the passion and dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our partners. We are thrilled to see the event grow year after year, bringing together enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate our love for car culture.
“We are very excited to continue pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional experiences for our attendees,” he said.
But beyond the glitz and glamour, KARS24 served as a platform to celebrate the rich automotive culture in the region.
From the specially invited cars to the esteemed guests who travelled from other parts of Malaysia, Brunei, Sabah, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, the event showcased the best of what the region had to offer.
Partnerships with industry supporters like Retro Havoc and Galeri Kereta from Kuala Lumpur, as well as Carcult from Thailand, elevated the experience to new heights.
This contributed significantly to ensuring that attendees were treated to an unforgettable spectacle.
Moreover, the event also featured a grand lucky draw with exciting prizes including fully refurbished cars and premium rewards, served as the climax of the evening.
But perhaps the true highlight was the dynamic exit show, where participating cars paraded out of the venue onto the main streets, leaving behind a trail of revving engines and impressive backfires.
It was a moment of pure exhilaration, a celebration of passion and camaraderie that encapsulated the spirit of KARS24.
As participants and attendees departed, their hearts full of thrilling memories and prized possessions, KARS24 left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.
But beyond that, it promised an even brighter future for automotive enthusiasts – a future where the boundaries of culture and community blur and passion for automotive reigns supreme.
