KUALA LUMPUR, 27 November – The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) through Esports Integrated (ESI) and MOONTON Games today held a joint press conference to commemorate the conclusion of the M5 Wild Card held in Malaysia, and to send off the professional national athletes competing at the M5 World Championship. Held at Dewan Serbaguna Parlimen, Yang Berhormat Adam Adli, the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports officially released the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang professional national athletes to compete at the M5 World Championship.
For the first time ever, esports athletes are being celebrated in the Parlimen, one of the most important landmarks for nation building. The send-off marks an important milestone for the development of Malaysia’s esports ecosystem, culminating from KBS’s direct involvement to catalyse the ecosystem that started back in 2019.
Adam Adli, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Malaysia, said: "Congratulations to HomeBois and Team SMG for successfully securing a spot in the M5 Championship. This congratulations is not only for the athletes but also extends to the entire team, including coaches and managers who have devised effective strategies, as well as the unwavering supporters who have tirelessly provided undivided support to help both teams perform their best. Show the world the fighting spirit and capabilities of Malaysian youth!"
"KBS and ESI are committed to further enhancing collaboration with game developers such as MOONTON Games to fuel a vibrant and sustainable esports ecosystem in Malaysia," he added.
The minister also cited his support for Malaysian esports and highlighted that he will host an esports festival in the Parliament.
“Without the support of everyone, we wouldn't have made it this far,” stated Fikri Rizal Mahruddin, Head of Marketing and Business Development, MOONTON Games. “This year, in the 32nd SEA Games and other third-party ecosystem events, Malaysia has managed to clinch back medals home. Come 2024, we want to open more doors for ecosystem partners and operators, to work together with us to level up the mobile esports industry. We have many exciting plans in 2024, and we hope for more to take part in our journey to be the best.”
Team SMG and HomeBois will be competing at the upcoming M5 World Championship, which will take place in Manila, the Philippines. Both Malaysian teams will be going against fourteen other international teams for the lion’s share of the increased USD 900,000 prize pool, and the coveted title of the world’s best Mobile Legends: Bang Bang team.
The national representatives qualified through MPL Malaysia Season 12, a professional esports league which grants community and professional esports teams the opportunity to compete on a global level, and to represent Malaysia at medal events. At the 32nd SEA Games this year, the national MLBB esports team clinched a silver medal at the Men’s Tournament.
