SEPANG, March 11 (Bernama) -- National Service (NS) trainees will be used as volunteers during the Formula One (F1) Malaysian Grand Prix here next month, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

He said the first group of 120 trainees would be deployed in customer service, reception and at information centres starting April 2.

"They will also be involved in Youth Day celebration. Other parties can use their service by providing pocket money, food and drinks. No payment is needed," he said at a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and National Service Training Department here today.

Zahid said the exposure was important in moulding their identity and that it would be expanded to other trainees.

The Formula One Malaysian Grand Prix would also see involvement of the Armed Forces Medical Corps.

"If approved by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), a flypass by fighter jets will be held during opening and at other times, just like when Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was prime minister."

He added it was proof of the Defence Ministry's commitment to make the Formula One Malaysian Grand Prix a success.