SINGAPORE: On race weekends, Fyreen Hanim Kamarul Ariffin runs around the Sepang F1 Circuit ensuring that functions like the opening ceremony runs like clockwork.

Since Tuesday, however the Sepang International Circuit public relations executive has been here playing “teacher” and advising organisers of the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix on how to get the job done.

“I don’t have to be around so much here. They ask me for advice on what to do. In the end, it is up to them to decide what they want to do,” she said.

“But I am on the other side of the fence. I feel like a teacher. It is the first time for them. And we have had the experience.”

While it will be the first time a night race is being held, Fyreen Hanim said there was not much difference whether it was held in the day or night.

“It doesn’t feel weird because the lights are really bright. It is just that we don’t have to start things that early like having the Drivers Parade at 1pm,” she said.

Having been at her job at the Sepang F1 Circuit since 2001, she said that timing was crucial even in handling an opening ceremony for a Formula One race.

“Timing is so crucial because so many things are happening all at once. And the schedule is by the minute,” she said.

Fyreen Hanim has been helping the Singaporeans since earlier this year on aspects of the opening ceremony, podium ceremony, drivers parade and grid girls.

“It is about helping to make things happen. As Asian countries, we need to do things well. If things go well, then it makes us look good,” she said.

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