Melaka eyed for national esports training hub and 2028 championship
Mara’s chairman has backed a proposal to develop its TVET institutions in the state into a centre for professional player training.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has proposed using Mara’s vocational and technical institutions in Melaka to train professional esports players through a national centre. Addressing an esports programme in Bandar Merlimau, he said the initiative had the support of Mara chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.
The proposed centre would nurture Malaysian players, especially young talent, Zahid said. He also outlined his ambition for Melaka to stage a world-level esports championship in 2028, following talks with the World Esports organisation’s president, who had indicated interest in bringing the competition to Malaysia.
Zahid favoured Melaka rather than Kuala Lumpur, Penang or Johor for the championship. He said he would discuss the proposal further with caretaker Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and hoped the state would offer support, including full sponsorship should it be selected to host.
He also urged greater efforts to develop competitive teams in Melaka. His stated goal was for a Merlimau team to secure the state title before challenging nationally. Zahid expressed hope that Malaysian teams, including HomeBois and Selangor Red Giants (SRG), would achieve world championship success.
