Deputy sports minister unveils Malaysia's esports strategy for 2026 Asian Games in Japan
Malaysia has been creating waves in the world of e-sports, and Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim (pictured above) has high hopes for the country’s performance at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. With e-sports becoming an official sport, Malaysia is preparing to win medals through rigorous training and strategic planning.
Malaysia’s preparation for 2026 Asian Games
Malaysia boasts a mature e-sports infrastructure, with a highly enthusiastic gamer base and extensive experience in international competitions. The country has secured titles in games such as Dota 2, Mobile Legends, and PUBG Mobile, which provides them with a competitive edge for the upcoming Asian Games.
To ensure a strong presence at the Asian Games, organisations such as the Malaysia Esports League (MEL), Esports Integrated (ESI), and the Malaysian Esports Federation (MESF) have united. They are training players in non-mainstream and lesser-played game titles to enhance Malaysia’s chances of winning.
Collaborative efforts and ambitions
Deputy Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim emphasised the collaborative efforts of MEL, ESI, and MESF in preparing for the Asian Games. These organisations, supported by the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS), are committed to training athletes capable of competing at the international level in Japan.
Halim stated, “There are many game titles that are not widely played or heard of in Malaysia, but MESF, supported by ESI, MEL, and the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS), is committed to developing grassroots players who have the potential for these lesser-played games at the Asian Games.”
The Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of focus and coordination with stakeholders to achieve success. He believes that with adequate support and commitment, Malaysia is capable of winning more medals at the event. The programme aims to achieve maximum participation and leverage Malaysia’s strengths in e-sports.
Minister Halim further stated, “We want to maximise participation as e-sports is one of our strengths. We have experience, so we are confident that with focus and more collaboration with stakeholders, we can bring home more medals from the Asian Games.”
E-Sports titles at the 2026 Asian Games
The 2026 Asian Games will feature eleven e-sports events, including Competitive Martial Arts (Team), Pokémon Unite, Honour of Kings, League of Legends, PUBG Mobile (Asian Games Version), Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Identity V (Asian Games Version), Naraka: Bladepoint, Gran Turismo 7, eFootball Series, and Puyo Puyo Champions. Malaysia will be preparing for these games by identifying top talents and ensuring they receive the best coaching and training.
Malaysia’s strategy for success
The government and e-sports organisations are working closely to ensure a strong performance at the games. The main strategies include maximising participation by competing in as many titles as possible, collaborating with sponsors, gaming associations, and foreign trainers, and developing grassroots talent by scouting and nurturing young players to create a robust pipeline for future competitions.
