By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, Oct 29 — Selangor aims to dominate in e-sports talent and innovation via the recently announced RM20 million national funding boost for the development of the gaming industry nationwide, said Mohd Najwan Halimi.
The state executive councillor for youth, sports, and entrepreneurship said they plan to strengthen its position in the growing e-sports arena by partnering with prominent e-sports organisations, including the Selangor Red Giants (SRG).
The planned initiative aims to empower young gamers and foster a vibrant e-sports ecosystem that would enhance skill development and promote responsible gaming practices among the youth.
“The RM20 million allocation signifies a promising step toward advancing the e-sports industry in Selangor and Malaysia. This funding will allow us to focus on developing infrastructure, organising talent development programmes, and creating a supportive ecosystem that nurtures emerging e-sports athletes,” he told Selangor Journal when contacted.
During the tabling of Budget 2025 on October 18, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced a RM20 million allocation to strengthen Malaysia’s e-sports ecosystem. He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering talent development and improving e-sports facilities as essential to establishing Malaysia as a leader in the fast-growing industry.
Anwar said that the funding aims to support grassroots initiatives, provide training for aspiring e-sports athletes, and encourage collaboration with established organisations to build a strong framework for sustainable growth in the sector.
Collaborative effort
Najwan said the state government aims to create a collaborative approach that allows young talent to thrive within a supportive framework, providing mentorship, competitive opportunities, and strong community engagement.
“The SRG’s plans for involvement in e-sports align closely with our vision for the sector. This allocation will allow us to explore collaborative programmes with them, as they bring a solid fan base and expertise in team-building and athletic development.
“Together, we hope to further engage Selangor’s youth, offering them structured pathways into e-sports with support from established organisations like SRG,” he said.
On July 14, the SRG recorded a historic win for Malaysia in international e-sports by defeating the Philippines’ Falcons AP Bren Sport in the Mid Season Cup Mobile Legends Bang Bang 2024.
Anwar, during his Budget 2025 address, also gave SRG a notable mention and applauded their success and victory.
He said such achievements not only showcase Malaysia’s potential in e-sports but also inspire future generations of gamers, noting that the Federal government’s allocation for the industry development aims to enhance this momentum further.
Meanwhile, commenting on whether specific programmes would be introduced as part of the state administration’s holistic development of e-sports, particularly in collaboration with the SRG, Najwan said the development goes beyond the competitive aspect and that Selangor is looking to stimulate a comprehensive ecosystem.
“We are currently exploring several initiatives, which include potential youth tournaments, training camps, and workshops with industry professionals.
“Collaborations with organisations like SRG are a strong possibility, as they would bring additional credibility and a fan-based following to these initiatives.
“We want to ensure that Selangor remains a leading hub for e-sports talent and innovation, and working with established sports organisations could be key to achieving that,” he said.
Najwan added that the state aims to work with local councils and other key players to establish dedicated e-sports hubs and facilities that allow youth to pursue and develop their skills in a structured environment.
“Our goal is to ensure the allocation benefits a broad spectrum of participants, from grassroots enthusiasts to professional gamers,” he said.
