Now we have successfully put Singapore on the world map by hosting the first ever night race in Formula One, I believe it is time for Singapore to start developing homegrown talent in motorsports, just as we did in swimming and table tennis.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) recently announced the launch of the Formula Two championship (www.formulatwo.com), with the intention of making top-level international single-seater racing available to drivers who at present have difficulty raising enough money to demonstrate their talent. As the official feeder series to F1, successful drivers will be given a chance to test drive for Williams F1, one of the most respected and successful F1 teams in the world, and potentially a drive seat if they are good enough.

There has been a lot of talk among local motorsports fans about a Singaporean driving for a F1 team, but I believe this dream can materialise only if our local talent is given the same amount of support overseas drivers enjoy in their home countries.

As a motorsports fan, I am aware of the challenges local drivers face in securing sponsorship in their racing career, especially as Singapore has no company like Petronas which participates actively in motorsports. I would therefore like the Government to consider some form of sponsorship, such as "Uniquely Singapore" as the title sponsor, so promising local drivers can participate in Formula Two next year. Hopefully, we will put a Singaporean on the world map of motorsports in 2010.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on Oct 20, 2008.