MARA To Establish National E-sports Training Centre In Melaka - Ahmad Zahid

JASIN, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- A Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) skills institution in Melaka will be transformed into an e-sports training centre to produce highly skilled players capable of representing the country at international level.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki had agreed to the idea following a proposal he made during the launch of the Melaka Biru 2026 E-Sports Tour programme in Duyong previously.

"I wish to confirm that the MARA chairman has agreed to turn MARA TVET in Melaka into a nationwide e-sports training centre," he said in his speech at the Melaka Biru 2028 E-Sports Tour in Merlimau here today.

Last Tuesday, Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, proposed that a MARA Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution be converted into an e-sports training centre to prepare young people for the industry.

He said the proposal was aimed at strengthening the country's e-sports industry while producing more internationally recognised players and creating a local e-sports content ecosystem.

In a related development, he also expressed his aspiration for Melaka to host a world e-sports championship in 2028.

He said the proposal emerged following discussions with the World Esports President, who expressed interest in holding the championship in Malaysia.

"I want this championship to be held in Melaka in 2028," he said.

Ahmad Zahid said he would also discuss the hosting proposal with Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and hoped the state government could fully sponsor the championship.

"We are proud of our teams that have won at the world level. We hope the national e-sports teams, including HomeBois and Selangor Red Giants (SRG), will emerge as world champions in the tournament, thereby bringing glory to Malaysia.

-- BERNAMA