
South Methodist crowned Sibu inter-school e-sports champs
SIBU (May 20): The South Methodist team from SMK Methodist emerged the champions of the 2025 Sibu Inter-school 'Honor of Kings' E-Sports Tournament at Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI) here last Sunday.
Team A from Wong Nai Siong Secondary School took second place, while the No Business team from the Catholic High School and the Sibu All-Star of the Citizens Middle School placed third and fourth, respectively.
Meanwhile, Yew Zhu Yin from SMK Methodist was named the tournament's 'Most Valuable Player' (MVP).
The two-day event, which kicked off on Saturday, was organised by MPI with support from Sibu E-sports Association (SDESA) and Human Resources Development Corp (HRD Corp).
It gathered some 200 e-sports enthusiasts.
In a press release issued yesterday, MPI said a total of 80 players from 16 teams competed for the championship title.
'The event meant to educate young people on approaching electronic games with a healthy mindset, rather than falling into addiction.
'It also introduced participants to the e-sports industry, highlighting potential career and business opportunities, while fostering teamwork, digital skills, strategic thinking, and healthy competition.'
The MPI also said all school representatives and supporters wore school-branded attire neatly and respectfully.
'They upheld the spirit of sportsmanship, and observed social etiquette throughout the tournament – setting a positive example for e-sports competitions and reinforcing a the spirit of 'friendship above competition',' said the institute. competition e-sports gaming lead SMK Methodist
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Malaysia Sun
2 days ago
- Malaysia Sun
Marlins place Kyle Stowers on IL, recall fellow OF Joey Wiemer
(Photo credit: David Richard-Imagn Images) The Miami Marlins placed All-Star outfielder Kyle Stowers on the 10-day injured list Sunday with a strained left oblique. The team announcement comes one day after Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said Stowers is expected to miss multiple weeks with the injury. Stowers, himself, didn't sound too worried about the issue, however. 'There was soreness during the game (on Friday),' Stowers said after sitting out Saturday's game against the Boston Red Sox. 'If every single player came out of the game every time they felt something, they'd come out a lot more. To me, didn't seem like something that I needed to come out of the game for. 'There's some soreness after, soreness today, and it's just one of those areas that you just kind of tend to lean cautious. I came back in with some soreness today. That's kind of the route we took.' Stowers, 27, is batting .288 with 25 homers and 73 RBIs in 117 games this season. He is a career .253 hitter with 31 homers and 108 RBIs in 234 games with the Baltimore Orioles and Marlins. Also Sunday, Miami recalled fellow outfielder Joey Wiemer from Triple-A Jacksonville. Wiemer, the reigning International League Player of the Week, is batting seventh against the Red Sox on Sunday and playing in left field. Wiemer, 26, is batting .364 with seven extra-base hits (five doubles, two homers) and 10 RBIs in 10 games with the Jumbo Shrimp. The Marlins selected him off waivers earlier this month after he parted with the Royals. He hit .201 with 13 homers and 42 RBIs in 153 career games with the Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds. He hit .182 in 72 games for the Kansas City Triple-A team in Omaha earlier this season. --Field Level Media


Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Borneo Post
Opportunities generated from digital battlegrounds
Photo shows the players battling it out during the 'Honor of Kings Inter-School Esports Tournament' at the MPI in Sibu. – Photo by Peter Boon BY 2025, the global audience of electronic sports, or esports, is anticipated to exceed 640 million people, comprising 318 million avid fans and 322 million occasional viewers. What began as a niche hobby has transformed into a global phenomenon, attracting massive audiences and generating billions in revenue. The Asia-Pacific region is at the forefront, accounting for over 57 per cent of all esports spectators – China and the Philippines already representing 40 per cent of the worldwide fan base. In the global esports market, the user base is projected to reach 896 million by 2029. Worldwide, esports market revenue is expected to hit US$4.8 billion this year. This revenue is projected to grow at an annual rate (compound annual growth rate in 2025-2029) of 5.56 per cent, leading to an estimated market volume of US$5.9 billion by 2029. Economically, esports fosters local employment, boosts tourism, and encourages technological advancements around major events. Culturally, esports celebrities have a significant impact on young people worldwide, and gaming is increasingly being integrated into educational curricula and public policy by governments and educational institutions. Many people incorrectly perceive esports as simply mindless entertainment, but it is actually strategic and structured, requiring discipline, specific skills, and involvement in various professional roles. In his view, Sibu Resident Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman says esports is no longer just a leisurely activity. Speaking at the recent Sibu Esports Festival (SIESF) 2025, he noted its growth into a global industry that had opened up new opportunities in digital entrepreneurship, talent development and professional careers. Abang Mohamad Porkan (second left) greets the young players upon his arrival at Sibu Indoor Stadium. According to Sibu Division Esport Association (SDESA) president Abdul Taib Rosli, esports can help foster teamwork, critical thinking, digital literacy, and student engagement. 'It also creates inclusive communities for students who may not be involved in traditional sports or activities. 'Students learn strategic thinking, communication, leadership, time management, stress control, and even technical skills like streaming, 'shoutcasting', and also event organising,' he told thesundaypost. Abdul Taib said at the launch of the 'Honor of Kings Inter-School Esports Tournament' at Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI) in May this year, he had suggested the establishment of esports clubs in schools that showed interest. 'Should this initiative be of interest to the Sibu District Education Office, we at SDESA are willing to collaborate and provide information to the office towards facilitating the implementation (of esports clubs) at the school level. He added that the activity could train students to think quickly, strategise and make sound decisions under real-time pressure. Sibu MP Oscar Ling, meanwhile, pointed out esports as being more than just fun or entertainment. 'It also teaches important life values, in addition to promoting teamwork. 'Whether you're coordinating an attack, defending the base, or adjusting strategies on the fly, you're relying on your teammates, and they're relying on you. 'This type of collaboration builds trust, communication, leadership and emotional intelligence. 'You learn how to win graciously, and how to lose with dignity. 'You learn that success isn't about doing everything yourself, but about doing your part for the team,' said Ling, whose text-of-speech was read out by his special assistant Irene Wong at the 'Honor of Kings Inter-School Esports Tournament' in MPI. Educationist Datuk Felician Teo believed that esports held great appeal for a wide range of students from diverse backgrounds. 'It will be beneficial to some students who may not be interested in traditional sports or clubs, but are interested in video games. 'Esports can motivate students who are easily distracted or lacking in interest and motivation in their studies. 'Esports is not just about playing video games. Students can learn valuable tech skills and roles which are highly transferrable to academic or work settings,' he said. Teo added that esports could engage students in a competitive setting to help them set goals and achieve them. 'These are invaluable skills vital for future employment,' he pointed out. Abdul Taib (front, third left) and Wong, on his left, join others in a photo session, taken after the launch of the esports tournament at the MPI in Sibu. Integration into educational frameworks The esports industry not only supports a wide array of specialised roles, but it also intersects with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, promoting skills that are highly valued in high-tech careers. In this regard, Abdul Taib believed that esports could be integrated into the formal school curriculum. 'Yes, through subjects like Digital Media, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Physical Education (for cognitive fitness), or even an elective module. 'Esports also supports STEM learning, psychology, and entrepreneurship components.' University of Technology Sarawak (UTS)'s School of Computing and Creative Media dean, Associate Prof Dr Alan Ting, pointed out that esports aligned perfectly with the digital and co-curricular strategy by bridging game development, creative media and competitive innovation. 'At UTS School of Computing and Creative Media, esports is not treated as an isolated activity, but as an ecosystem that synergises with our Bachelor of Mobile Game Development (Honours) programme. 'Our curriculum includes courses such as Game Programming, Mobile Game Engines, Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Games, and Game Business and Marketing – all providing students with both the technical skills and the strategic understanding needed in esports. 'We also encourage student-led esports events, 'game jams', and content creation as co-curricular engagements,' he said. Many people incorrectly perceive esports as mindless entertainment, but it is actually a strategic and structured activity. Question on career path Asked about how schools could better prepare the students for actual careers in esports, Ting said as a start, they could go for curriculum integration. 'It's like our (UTS) inclusion of AI, multiplayer game design, and analytics. 'In addition, schools can go for industry partnerships with game studios, streaming platforms, and esports teams. 'It's also good to expose the students to live events and competitions where they can take on roles beyond playing: for example, organising, streaming, doing analytics, and marketing.' Ting encouraged schools to get involved in research and innovation projects, encouraging them to explore solutions in training simulations, virtual-reality (VR) esports, or ethical AI matchmaking. 'By embedding esports into both teaching and hands-on experiences, we help students transition seamlessly into professional roles.' Abdul Taib's suggestion called for schools to organise or open the access to workshops, mentorship with industry professionals, exposure to tournament setting-ups, career talks, or even exposing the youths to technical and vocational education and training (TVET) pathways. Adding on, he said Esports Integrated (ESI) had been working closely with the SDESA in promoting National Esports Development Guidelines (NESDEG). According to Ting, esports is considered a viable career path for aspiring students, with it now being a significant part of the digital economy with professional opportunities spanning far beyond playing. Echoing Ting's view, Teo pointed out that esports could be a viable career path. 'It is a big and growing industry that presents many pathways for students to develop careers in marketing, event management and game development – just to name a few. 'Students can also move on to pursue degrees and other related qualifications or courses. Ting remarked: 'Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with technical proficiency in game development, AI, and software tools. 'Additionally, potential candidates need to possess analytical thinking and creativity, which are enhanced through projects like the 'Final Year Project' and 'Mobile Game Deployment' courses. 'Teamwork, leadership, and communication are the skills emphasised in our 'Professional Development and Leadership Skills Module'. 'Real-world experience can be gained from programmes such as our industrial-training semester and project-based coursework. 'Esports experience demonstrates resilience, adaptability and cultural fluency in digital communities, which are highly valued traits.' Competitors truly engrossed in their game during the Sibu Esports Festival 2025, staged at Sibu Indoor Stadium. Does Malaysia have the infrastructure, talent pipeline? Ting expressed confidence in Malaysia being well-positioned to support esports as a mainstream career path. 'We have a young, digitally-connected population, increasing Internet accessibility, and growing institutional support. 'Through initiatives like our Bachelor of Mobile Game Development, we are creating a talent pipeline that understands both the technical and business sides of esports. 'The inclusion of AI, analytics, XR (Extended Reality), and mobile-first design in our programme reflects the direction the global esports industry is moving toward. 'With continued policy support and investment in digital infrastructure, Malaysia can become a regional esports leader.' Concurring with Ting, Abdul Taib noted that Malaysia was progressing well in esports, boosted by government support, investments from the private sector, and rising talents. 'We still need stronger grassroots development and better career guidance at the school level. 'I believe the esports associations carry big weight in building and promoting the ecosystem for esports to stay on track. 'The government believes in and strongly supports this initiative, as evidenced by the special grants or allocations included in the National Budget each year,' he pointed out. * Part II of the series, to be out next Sunday, will discuss the misconception of esports lacking academic and economic values, and the argument to dispel such myths.


The Star
5 days ago
- The Star
Li Peng: Pearly-Thinaah are redefining excitement in women's doubles
Different court: Ang Li Peng, who won the country's first women's doubles gold medal at the Commonwealth Games with Lim Pek Siah, was called to the Malaysian Bar in 2012. File pix of Li Peng with father Ang Chin Hiat at Jalan Duta Court Complex. Looking on are Chuan Lai Yoong (mother) and her sister Annie Ang Peng Wei. Rohaizat/Star. PETALING JAYA: Former shuttler Ang Li Peng knows what it takes to stand atop the podium and the senior is thrilled to see Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah climbing that same path to glory. Li Peng etched her name in history alongside Lim Pek Siah when they became the first Malaysian women's doubles pair to strike gold at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester. The pair's victory was an important breakthrough and Malaysia then went on to win four women's doubles titles in the next five editions through Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty (2006), Vivian Hoo-Woon Khe Wei (2014), Vivian-Chow Mei Kuan (2018) and Pearly- Thinaah (2022). Since then, Pearly- Thinaah have risen to become one of the most exciting pairs in the world, hitting a career-high No. 2 in the world rankings last month. "It's amazing to see each generation producing standout players. As senior athletes, we are happy to see the players evolving," said Li Peng, who is a lawyer now. "Pearly- Thinaah have a dynamic style of play. They redefine excitement for today's generation. "In my opinion, they are an all-rounded pair – strong in attack, solid in defense and capable of producing thrilling rallies." After seeing Pearly-Thinaah enjoy a fine year so far, Li Peng has backed the pair to end Malaysia's wait for a medal in the women's doubles in the World Championships from Aug 25-31 in Paris. "Pearly-Thinaah have always been one of the most consistent pairs we ever had. Given their current form, they are at their peak and their chances of winning a medal is very high," said Li Peng. "They have consistently reached semi-finals and finals in their past few tournaments and this doesn't just require skills and good strategies but mental strength as well." Pearly-Thinaah have reached at least the semi-finals in five out of their past six tournaments. Overall this year, the duo have captured the Thailand Open and finished runners-up in the Japan Open, Indonesian Open and Masters. Li Peng also believes that returning to the same venue as the Paris Olympics - the Adidas Arena in Port de la Chapelle - will give Pearly-Thinaah huge motivation in the world meet. In the Olympics last August, the pair created history by becoming the first Malaysians to reach the last four of the women's doubles in the showpiece event. "Psychologically, it will help to play in Paris again after the Olympics. They are familiar with the stadium," said Li Peng. "The moment they step into the stadium, their spirits will be lifted and they will be highly motivated." Pearly-Thinaah have received a bye in the first round and will likely play Hong Kong's Lui Lok Lok-Tsang Hiu Yan in the second round. Meanwhile, Malaysia will also be represented in the women's doubles by world No. 18 Teoh Mei Xing-Go Pei Kee. The pair, who have improved steadily since combining last year, have also been given a bye in the first round and could face world No. 19 Bulgarian sisters Gabriela Stoeva-Stefani Stoeva for a place in the third round.