KUALA LUMPUR — This weekend could feel like a long one for Malaysians in the capital — not because of a string of public holidays, but the sheer number of events expected to clog up roads across the Klang Valley.

The days ahead will feature a flurry of sporting, cultural and musical events, with several taking place simultaneously.

Malay Mail breaks down some of the biggest events taking place in and around KL this weekend:

Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

The biggest crowd-puller is the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, which got under way at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) yesterday and continues until tomorrow (October 4).

Formula 1 is returning to Malaysia for the first time in nine years, with Sepang stepping in to host the race after the Bahrain Grand Prix was cancelled earlier this season amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Some 22 drivers will take to the Sepang circuit, including 12 who will be competing there for the first time, according to Reuters.

Daily crowds are expected to surpass 100,000, with Sunday’s finale tipped to draw a record number of spectators.

Traffic diversions will be taking place on several roads leading to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) from 8am to 11pm daily until October 4.

Some 822 police officers will be stationed at eight checkpoints around KLIA and the SIC including Bulatan Masjid, Jalan KLIA S8 and Persiaran Teknologi 1 & 2.

KLIA has also advised race-goers to use the Express Rail Link (ERL) or e-hailing services to arrive at the airport. 

Free shuttle bus services will be provided for the F1 spectators from KLIA Terminal 2, KLIA Long Term Car Park and Mitsui Outlet Park KLIA.