29/06/2025

ON SUNDAY JUNE 29, 2025 theSunday Special VII

Many still see gaming as just playing, when in reality, it’s about discipline, strategy, teamwork and creativity.”

T DX¿N OHG 7RGDN $FDGHP\ WR DGGUHVV this gap and nurture the next generation of gaming professionals, from players and shoutcasters to content creators and production crew. The academy offers a curriculum grounded in real-world industry practices, not just theoretical concepts. He emphasised that talent is every where, but opportunity is not. “We see young people from all walks of life with incredible potential. What they need is mentorship and structure. Once they have that, the sky’s the limit.” Education meets innovation This focus on education and skills training is key to Malaysia’s esports future. While traditional universities are beginning to introduce gaming and esports modules, SULYDWH DFDGHPLHV OLNH 7RGDN DUH ¿OOLQJ the void with agile, industry-aligned programmes. T KHVH HGXFDWLRQDO H̆ RUWV DOVR UHÀHFW broader global shifts. With the rise of gamification in business and educa tion, gaming principles are embedded in diverse sectors. This includes using game-based learning in schools, virtual reality simulations in medical training and even interactive storytelling in marketing. With its multilingual, multicultural population and strong digital infrastruc ture, Malaysia is uniquely positioned to become a regional hub for such innova tion, if it can continue nurturing talent and promoting public-private collaboration. Challenges behind the screen Despite the optimism, several hurdles remain. Sustainable funding, limited infrastruc ture in rural areas, public misconceptions and policy gaps continue to slow progress. Many aspiring players, especially outside urban centres, lack access to stable inter net, quality equipment or safe spaces to train and compete. Parents and educators often remain sceptical of gaming’s value even within urban areas. Concerns over addiction, screen time and exposure to toxic online behaviour persist. T DX¿N DFNQRZOHGJHG WKHVH FRQFHUQV but stressed the importance of informed dialogue. “It’s not about blind encouragement. ,W¶V DERXW JXLGDQFH $W 7RGDN ZH LQVWLO values like time management, mental resilience and teamwork. These are skills WKDW PDWWHU RQ DQG R̆ VFUHHQ ´ KH VDLG He also advocates for better policy making that balances regulation with innovation. “We need frameworks that protect young players while allowing the industry to grow. That means support for training, mental health resources and clearer career pathways.”

Esports is now a formalised industry.

The community behind the consoles One of gaming’s enduring strengths is its sense of community. For many Malaysians, especially during lockdown SHULRGV ± JDPHV EHFDPH OLIHOLQHV R̆ HULQJ friendship, purpose and even income. Beyond professional esports, grass roots gaming remains a powerful force. Facebook groups, Discord servers and local meetups continue to fuel interest and foster belonging. Women, too, are carving out their space in what was once a male-dominated arena. Malaysian streamers like MissRose and Xyraa have built strong followings, challenging stereotypes and expanding representation. Then there are everyday players – students, office workers, parents who game not for fame or fortune, but for the joy of connection. Their stories matter just as much.

A collective responsibility Ultimately, the future of gaming and esports in Malaysia rests not just in the hands of tech developers or tournament organisers, but in society. It involves educators rethinking how they engage students. Policymakers are crafting inclusive strategies. Parents learning about their children’s passions. Young people are embracing both the thrill of play and the discipline of progress. “ *DPLQJ LV D PLUURU ,W UHÀHFWV ZKR ZH are and what we value. If we want a better future through gaming, we must build it WRJHWKHU ´ 7DX¿N SXW LW VLPSO\ That future is already being shaped in classrooms, training rooms, living rooms and digital arenas across the country. What remains is how far we are willing to go to support it.

We need frameworks that protect

young players while allowing the industry to grow. That means support for training, mental health resources and clearer career pathways.”

The future is hybrid Malaysia’s gaming and esports landscape will likely evolve into a more hybrid model – blending education, entertainment and enterprise. $ lready, we’re seeing crossovers be tween gaming and other industries. Local fashion brands are collaborating with streamers. Tech companies are investing in esports tournaments. Government agencies are eyeing game development as part of creative economy growth. V LUWXDO UHDOLW\ DUWL¿FLDO LQWHOOLJHQFH DQG the metaverse will further blur the lines between digital and physical life. In such a world, gaming is no longer escapism – it is interaction, innovation and identity. This presents exciting possibilities for Malaysia. The country could spearhead regional esports leagues, become a launch pad for indie game developers or develop world-class training academies that attract international students. However, success will depend on whether the ecosystem remains inclusive, resilient and forward-thinking.

Key developments to watch

RISE of local developers: Malaysia is home to a growing indie scene, with games like No Straight Roads and Eximius gaining international traction. • Public funding support: Initiatives such as MDEC’s Level Up KL continue to boost visibility and collaboration in the local ecosystem.

• Diversity in gaming: More women, LGBTQ+ players and differently-abled individuals are participating in gaming spaces, pushing for more inclusive game design and com munity norms. • Education integration: Esports clubs are being formed in secondary schools and public universities, formalising interest and offering academic pathways. • Mental health in esports: Growing conversations around player burnout and psychological support are prompting new wellness frameworks, especially among top-tier teams. Malaysia stands at an inflexion point. The digital generation is already here and gaming is part of their language. By recognising its value, not just as a game, but as a gateway, the country can unlock new forms of innovation, expression and connection. As the lines between reality and virtuality continue to blur, gaming offers not an escape, but an entrance into new ways of learning, competing and thriving.