Virtual conference explored the power of e-sports and avenues for growth in Malaysia and the SEA region



    Esports Integrated Conference (EIC) 2021 was organized by Esports Integrated (ESI), powered by  the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) and Impact Integrated with the aim to reach into the local  e-sports ecosystem. The conference took place from May 24 to May 27, with a series of keynote  sessions and panel discussions featuring notable business figures and personalities, both locally and in the region. 

    Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo by dife88 from Pixelbay.

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    The conference drew in over 1,800 participants across Southeast Asia countries from Malaysia (82%), Indonesia (14%), Philippines, Thailand, India, Vietnam, Singapore and more (4%). With  e-sports and mobile gaming making its way into sanctioned tournaments such as the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) and Asian Games, we see an exponential growth in the sport, both  locally and regionally. In addition to its growth, it also fuels the convergence of various established  industries for key industry players, organizers, brands and game developers. EIC 2021 paved the  way for opportunities to connect with a highly engaged audience during the panel discussions and  networking sessions.

    The 4-day virtual conference aimed to give a deeper understanding of the power of e-sports,  explored avenues for the e-sports industry to continuously develop and grow, and further expand the e-sports ecosystem consisting of professional and up-and-coming gamers. EIC 2021 featured  partners and notable speakers from the region that shared valuable insights, relevant industry  knowledge and advice. Some notable highlights from EIC 2021 as follows:

    Carlos Alimurung, CEO of ONE Esports

    “We want to celebrate esports heroes and their values, we want to engage with the ecosystem, and we want to create memorable experiences.”

    Hou Yin Wan, Country Director of GushCloud Malaysia

    “Don’t do it for the money—which is easier said than done—do it for the passion. If you have the right mentality, attitude and passion, you will get somewhere. Never give up.” 

    Hazman Hassan, CEO of KITAMEN

    “It’s not only about reaching out to the community or the market, it’s about how you can enrich your brand and be a part of the esports community.”

     

    Dato’ Latt Shariman Abdullah, Founder & Former President of the Malaysian Esports Federation

    “Each and every one of us plays an integral part in ensuring the growth and development of the esports industry, be it the government or the community.”

    Izza Izelan, Executive Director of women:girls

    “I am not surprised that we have a lot of female players that are very excited to be involved and try Mobile Legends: Bang Bang”

    As part of the long-term plan of the National Esports Roadmap, Esports Integrated Conference will be held annually with an expected on-ground event in 2022. YB Dato’ Sri Reezal Merican Naina  Merican, Youth and Sports Minister recently announced ESI’s next initiative, the hosting of the  Malaysian Esukan League 2021 (MEL21), with the official tournament dates soon to be announced.

    For more information on ESI’s National Esports Roadmap plans, visit: 

    Website www.esportsintegrated.com or 

    ESI’s Facebook www.facebook.com/esportsintegrated

    Sources: Esports Integrated Conference (Press Release)