Federal Territories Umno Youth gives the thumbs-up to a proposal to close off several Kuala Lumpur streets weekly for street races for Mat Rempit.

Its chief, Razlan Rafii, said the move could help curb illegal races and allow youths to spend time positively.

"Mat Motor (Rempit) like to show off their talent and hosting such races could unearth new talent in motoring sports," he said in a statement.

He said Kuala Lumpur can host a street grand prix while Formula E race can be held in Putrajaya.

"I believe the proposal can be executed in a way that fulfils safety and motoring sports standards," he said.

Federal Territories Minister Tengku Adnan Mansor on Monday said he is proposing to close off the streets to allow Mat Rempit to race once or twice a week.

The Umno secretary-general said he will consult with the Kuala Lumpur mayor and "friends from Umno" on the matter.

Critics, however, raised safety concerns, saying the proposal does not take into account other criminal activities linked to illegal street racing.

Critics also pan the proposal for failing to address the reason why youths, who come mostly from underprivileged backgrounds, join street races.

In 2006, Putera Umno tried to rebrand street racing by terming racers 'Mat cemerlang' instead of the colloquial 'Mat Rempit'.

The three-day ceremony at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, meant to kick-start the rebranding exercise, was officiated by then prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.