UTS hopeful state, federal govt can provide resources to promote esports

SIBU (July 6): University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) hopes to get support from both the state and federal governments to provide educational and research resources for the university to promote esports, said its vice chancellor Prof Datuk Khairuddin Ab Hamid.

“This is specially in terms of the need (for the government) to regulate and promote the recognition of esports in the country. UTS would like to propose for the establishment of a regulatory framework to regulate and provide proper recognition of esports in the country.

“The proposed framework can perhaps include matters related to policies and regulations, recognitions, employment opportunity, creation of economic activities, legal issues and impact of esports on the physical and mental health (of athletes),” he said at the International Game Development Conference 2024 at UTS’ Dewan Canselor Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud here today.

The two-day conference, which was officiated by federal Digital Deputy Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, themed ‘Uniting the World of Gaming’ ends tomorrow and was organised by UTS.

Khairuddin said the field of game development is one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving areas of technology and entertainment.

“At UTS, we have always been committed to fostering innovation and nurturing talent. This conference is a testament to that commitment, and is an opportunity for us to showcase the incredible potential that lies within our students, faculty and community,” he said.

He said by hosting this conference, UTS aims to inspire the next generation of game developers and provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

Meanwhile, organising chairman of the conference Jackie Ting pointed out the conference is a significant step towards making Sarawak a global hub for game development.

He observed the world of gaming is ever-evolving and staying ahead of the innovation curve is made through events such as this.

“Let us use this opportunity to learn from one another, challenge our assumptions and push the boundaries of what is possible,” he added.

A press release stated the conference underscored Malaysia’s growing presence in the global gaming industry and UTS’ role as a catalyst for innovation and community building in game development.

Among those present was UTS Dean of the School of Computing and Creative Media Associate Prof Dr Alan Ting.