MESF gets the nod from OCM as the official national esports body

KUALA LUMPUR – The Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) has recognised the Malaysia Electronic Sports Federation (MESF) as the primary and legitimate national governing body for esports in Malaysia.

OCM president, Tan Sri Mohammad Norza Zakaria, sent an official letter to the Asian Electronic Sports Federation (AESF), based in Hong Kong, to make it official.

Established in 2014, MESF became an affiliate of AESF on April 16, 2020. Since then, MESF has made significant progress in aligning with AESF’s mission to integrate esports as an essential part of the Asian sports movement.

“On behalf of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, it is our great pleasure to officially extend our recognition and full support to the Malaysia Electronic Sports Federation (MESF) as the primary and legitimate national governing body for esports in Malaysia.

“This endorsement reflects our confidence in the dedication and accomplishments of MESF in promoting and developing esports as a recognised and integral component of the sporting landscape in Malaysia.

“The MESF has shown a strong commitment to establishing a solid foundation for esports in Malaysia, championing professionalism, inclusivity, and innovation within the industry.

“It has also successfully nurtured local talent, elevated the level of competition, and ensured the visibility of Malaysia on the international stage,” said Norza.

Esports has also become one of the most frequently contested sports at the SEA Games, with countries vying for gold medals, including Malaysia.

It was first introduced at the 2019 SEA Games in the Philippines and has since been retained in the following two editions, Vietnam 2021 and Cambodia 2023.

The host country for the 2025 SEA Games, Thailand, has also agreed to include esports as part of the competition for next year’s games. – November 19, 2024