Sarawak leads nation in esports education through TVET, says DPM Zahid

KUCHING (Oct 5): Sarawak is leading the way in the introduction of esports education within Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions nationwide, said Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Deputy Prime Minister extended his congratulations to Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) Commercial for its collaboration with the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) in actively advancing the TVET agenda.

“I would like to congratulate Centexs as, so far, no TVET institutions outside of Sarawak offer esports education.

“I hope we will send more participants to compete in esports on a global level,” he said in his speech at the launch of the ‘TVET HRD Corp-Centexs Commercial Initiative’ at Centexs Lundu today.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, noted the recent success of the Selangor Red Giants team, who brought pride to the nation by winning the ‘2024 Mobile Legend: Bang Bang Mid-Season Cup’ in Riyadh, taking home RM4.7 million in prize money.

“I personally watched their training and offered some encouragement because one of the players happens to be my grandson,” he shared.

Moreover, he expressed hope that Human Resources Minister Steven Sim would join him in helping Centexs students become global esports champions.

“We must encourage esports graduates to engage on a global level, producing and selling esports content from a uniquely Malaysian perspective.

“I believe that, one day, Sarawak will be at the forefront of the esports industry. By working together, I’m confident we can achieve this mission successfully,” he said, adding he hoped the industry would grow into a content-driven venture.

He also praised Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for his forward-thinking approach towards youth development, ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of such initiatives.

Additionally, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the potential for exchange programmes between Centexs and Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL), especially in fields such as aviation, as well as Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul industries.

“I hope UniKL will welcome Centexs students and vice versa, allowing them to gain exposure and experience. Although there are only a few months left this year, I believe we should implement this initiative as soon as possible.”

During the event, HRC Corp presented a RM30 million contribution to Centexs, aimed at benefitting students furthering their studies at the institution.

Receiving the mock cheque for the contribution was Centexs Commercial chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Morshidi Ghani.

This initiative is supported by the Ministry of Human Resources, serving as the driving force and implementer of the TVET programme in Sarawak, while also acting as a catalyst for national integration.