FROM GAME TO CAREER: MOBILE LEGENDS DRIVES MALAYSIA’S ESPORTS REVOLUTION

By Muhammad Zulkarnain Mohd Azman

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 22 (Bernama) -- Behind its calm exterior lies a virtual world that is loud, fast-paced and filled with strategy.

The fingers of 23-year-old Muhammad Danial Fuad move swiftly across his smartphone screen as his eyes remain fixed on the movements of the characters in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB).

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For Muhammad Danial, better known as CikuGais, MLBB is more than just a game; it has completely transformed his life.

“It started with small tournaments, and slowly I began earning some income. That’s when I realised MLBB isn’t just a game, but a career path that can actually make money,” said the professional player, who is now the owner of the MLBB professional team, CG Esports.

Launched in 2016 as a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game, MLBB has since become a global phenomenon and a driving force behind the growth of Malaysia’s esports industry.

From small cybercafe tournaments, MLBB has grown into a premier professional league - the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Malaysia (MPL MY) - with an estimated value exceeding RM1 million, according to esportschart.com.

Since its introduction in 2018, MPL MY, now in its 16th season, has continued to elevate the country’s esports scene, attracting millions of online viewers while filling arenas and stadiums nationwide.

The league has not only produced local stars but also paved the way for Malaysian youths to compete internationally and pursue esports as a full-time career.

One of the league’s biggest success stories is Selangor Red Giants (SRG), which made Malaysia proud by winning the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Mid Season Cup (MSC) in 2024 and emerging as runner-up in the 2025 edition — transforming public perception of esports.

“In the early days, people said playing esports was a waste of time. But now, it’s recognised as a career, and I no longer feel embarrassed to explain what I do,” said professional MLBB player Mohammad Zul Hisham Mohd Noor.

He added that MPL MY had a huge impact in reshaping how society views esports, particularly as more people now see it as a legitimate and respected industry.

Beyond creating opportunities for youth, MLBB has also empowered women in a field once dominated by men, with more female players, casters and team managers emerging in the scene — including Mariah Ahmad, who now serves as an analyst for CG Esports.

“In MLBB, gender is not a problem as long as you’re good at what you do. That’s what makes the game special.

“The stereotypes still exist, but if you’re strong and skilled, there’s no discrimination,” said Mariah.

Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim previously said that the government’s support for MLBB is not merely because of its popularity, but because of its significant contribution to youth development and the digital economy.

“It’s not just a game — it stimulates the digital economy, enhances youth participation and provides a platform for the public to engage with and understand the esports ecosystem. We’re not only producing players or athletes, but also professionals in fields like broadcasting, coaching and nutrition,” he said. 

Moonton Games Malaysia’s Head of Business Development, Krystal Tan, said MLBB’s success in Malaysia stems from a community culture that resonates deeply with local players.

“MLBB is one of the most popular games in Malaysia because it’s easy to play and easy to love. You just need a phone and some friends — that’s how most Malaysians started.

“What’s beautiful about MLBB is how it connects people — friends, families, entire communities — who come together through the game,” she said.

Tan said that since its introduction nine years ago, MLBB has become a household name in Malaysia through strong grassroots development strategies.

“We’ve built clear pathways for talent to build sustainable careers not just as athletes, but as coaches, casters, production teams and community leaders,” she said. 

Today, MLBB is no longer just a digital pastime — it stands as a symbol of social and economic transformation, representing a new generation of Malaysians who see esports as their future.

-- BERNAMA