malaysiang
ISKANDAR PUTERI: A total of RM10 million from the RM20 million allocated for the development of the e-sports ecosystem under Budget 2025 will be used for constructing a new e-sports stadium. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the initiative, emphasizing its role in supporting and promoting the future growth of the industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the RM20 million allocation dedicated to e-sports, which was announced during the recent budget presentation. Out of this, RM10 million will be specifically used for the construction of a dedicated e-sports stadium, while the remaining funds will focus on training and various activities related to e-sports.
Ahmad Zahid shared these details with reporters during his attendance at the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Malaysia Professional League (MPLMY) Finals at EduCity Sports Complex. The event was also graced by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri
Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
During the budget presentation in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing the e-sports ecosystem, which includes talent development and upgrading e-sports arenas. Ahmad Zahid further elaborated that Sarawak has already advanced in this sector through the establishment of the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) for e-sports development.
He suggested that Johor could draw inspiration from Sarawak’s initiatives, noting that e-sports can be more than just an indoor gaming activity; it can also provide income opportunities. Ahmad Zahid underscored the importance of leveraging the expanding e-sports ecosystem, which is experiencing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.6 percent.
He also pointed out the significant potential for growth in the e-sports industry through specialized Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. These programs cover skills such as journalism
and commentary, broadcasting production, team management, coaching, event organization, and technical work.
The MPLMY final match, featuring teams Vamos (VMS) and Selangor Red Giants (SRG), attracted an audience of more than 2,000 spectators, showcasing the growing popularity of e-sports in the region.
