KUCHING: Sarawak is ready to take its place on the global esports stage, both in hosting events and producing talented players from the region.

Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, said the esports industry in the region is gaining recognition, especially with the successful organisation of the Sarawak Esports Expo 2024 (SAREX24).

The event attracted participants not only from Sarawak and across Malaysia but also from countries such as Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

He explained that this achievement highlights how esports today is more than just playing video games.

It has grown into a thriving ecosystem that encourages competition, innovation, and education.

“Events like SAREX24 have created an important platform for nurturing talent, building industry networks, and promoting entrepreneurship,” he said.

“We believe esports can drive economic growth by offering opportunities in various roles, including players, coaches, event organisers, broadcasters, content creators, and game developers,” he added.

He was speaking at the closing ceremony of SAREX24, held at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Community Hall on Sunday.

Datuk Snowdan also noted that the overwhelming response to this year’s event opens up opportunities for Sarawak to position itself as a leading esports hub in Malaysia and beyond.

In the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) competition, team Foxura emerged as champions, taking home RM7,000 in cash along with medals.

Meanwhile, N3 Tanjong Datu and OD Esports secured second and third places, winning RM4,500 and RM2,500 respectively, along with medals.

For the PUBG Mobile tournament, Team52, SBD Vicious, and MPFEC claimed the top three spots, earning RM15,000, RM9,000, and RM5,000 in prize money.

Other competitions held during the three-day SAREX24 event included Tekken 8 and rFactor2 Sim Racing, each offering a total prize pool of RM7,000.

To add to the excitement, the organisers also hosted a cosplay competition with a total prize pool of RM11,000.

SAREX24, which kicked off on December 13, officially concluded on Sunday with an impressive line-up of tournaments and a total prize pool of RM80,000. -UKASnews