Abang Johari presents Stephanie with her incentive during the event. Flanking them are Abdul Karim (left) and Snowdan. — Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi

KUCHING: Sarawak is looking to delve into the world of e-sports which has gained popularity in recent years, says Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said electronic sports is a form of competition using video games that has become a multi-billion dollar business, and is something that the state ought to venture into.

“E-sports is a test of your brains because it is virtual sports and a test of your hand reflex. It is getting popular and I think we have sent our athletes to the Philippines to participate in e-sports.

“Today e-sports has become a multi-billion dollar business and it is a test of your brain endurance, especially in relation to digital technology, so that is for us to train in this new subject,” he said at the
Youth and Sports Ministry’s ‘Appreciation Night’ event, held here Tuesday.

In addition to e-sports, he said the government is also looking into the possibility of preparing youths in the state to participate in more extreme and challenging sports that will test their resilience.

He added that the state also needs to develop other sports such as football, gasing, sepak takraw, wushu and others.

Meanwhile, state Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said his ministry has also emphasised on getting young Sarawakians involved in e-sports.

However, he also hoped that the younger generation will find time to get involved in physical sports, stressing that it would not be good to “sit and just play video games” as it would limit one’s time communicating with friends.

“You can play e-sports but please diversify and participate in other sports also,” he advised.

During the dinner, Abang Johari presented incentives to Sarawak athletes who won medals during SEA Games 2019 and International Championship Games, including powerlifter Stephanie Ensol who was awarded RM20,000.

Youth and Sports Assistant Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan was among those who attended the ceremony.