Melaka poised to become national esports training hub

JASIN: Melaka could become the country's national esports training hub, with Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in the state set to be developed into a centre to nurture professional players.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the proposal had received Mara chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki's backing following its announcement at the Jelajah E-Sports Melaka Biru 2026 programme in Duyong two days ago.

He said the centre would serve as an important platform for developing local esports talent, particularly among the younger generation.

"I would like to confirm that the Mara chairman has agreed to turn Mara's TVET institutions in Melaka into a national esports training centre," he said when officiating the Jelajah E-Sports Melaka Biru 2028 programme in Bandar Merlimau here.

Zahid, who is also BN chairman, said he wanted Melaka to host a world-level esports championship in 2028.

He said the proposal followed discussions with the president of the World Esports organisation, who had expressed interest in holding the championship in Malaysia.

He said Melaka should be given priority over other states as the host venue, giving the state an opportunity to become a focal point for the international esports community.

"I do not want this championship to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Penang or Johor. Instead, I want it to be held in Melaka in 2028," he said.

Zahid said he would hold further discussions with caretaker Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh on the proposal.

He hoped the state government would support the event, including by providing full sponsorship if Melaka was selected as the host.

He added that esports development in Melaka should be strengthened to produce teams capable of winning not only at state level but also in national and international competitions.

"We want to see a team from Merlimau emerge as state champions before going on to challenge for the national title.

"We are proud of our national teams that have won at the world level. We hope Malaysian esports teams, including HomeBois and Selangor Red Giants (SRG), will emerge as world champions and bring glory to the country," he said.