Malaysian Ministry of Youth and Sports Sets Up Esports Platform

The Malaysian Ministry of Youth Sports (KBS) has launched Esports Integrated (ESI), an initiative that will definitely change the Esports environment and market in the country. ESI will redefine the Esports ecosystem in Malaysia, providing better regulatory framework and guidelines.

The platform was set up by KBS in cooperation with Impact Integrated, a Malaysian company which operates a social impact agency, digital media and traditional radio platform, along with an ecommerce platform for local homegrown products.

The first phase of the project is already underway, and it started with a brand-new website which will include a platform to manage and centralise the esports ecosystem. Betting on Esports events is becoming more and more popular around the world, with several online casinos and sportsbooks offering odds on such tournaments.

That platform will also be able to host tournaments with its fully operational engine, and in time that will lead to forming the Malaysia Esports Circuit, a professional environment for developing competitive Esports events.

The project will continue in 2021 with the development of a Capacity Building programme. This will focus on improving the skills of team managers, coaches, along with tournament and event organizers.

The initiative also includes a physical building that will be erected in 2021, an Esports Hub center that will be located in Spacerubix, Puchong.

Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Malaysian Minister of Youth and Sports, said: “KBS is proud to work together with ESI to build The National Esports Roadmap, catalysing the growth of the Esports industry in Malaysia. With the rise of Esports in the region, these initiatives will not only create opportunities to upskill our youth but also provide a platform to develop and improve the Esports industry in the country.”

Ahmed Faris Amir, CEO of Impact Integrated, added: “We are proud to support the nation in building the Esports industry. ESI’s vision is to create a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem that enables growth, ensures protection and fosters diversity for Esports players of all levels in Malaysia.”

To some extent, Esports are quite similar to live casino games, the action takes place at that very moment right in front of your eyes, and the adrenaline rush can be quite similar in both cases.

Source: “Esports Integrated to Streamline Malaysian Esports Industry“. European Gaming. October 7, 2020.