PETALING JAYA: RM20mil has been allocated for eSports to develop and support up-and-coming athletes.

       Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said the allocation also included RM5mil for the creation of a Drone Sports Centre of Excellence.

       He applauded the performance of Malaysian eSports athletes at The International 10 Dota 2 (Defense of the Ancients tournament) that concluded recently in Romania, including Cheng Jin Xiang or “NothingToSay” who was part of China-based team PSG.LGD that won U$5,202,400 (RM21.7mil) in prize money for second place.

       Three other Malaysians who were playing for various teams, including China-based Invictus Gaming and UK-based team Fnatic, also placed within the top 12 in the tournament.

       “This is proof that we have young athletes who need to be supported and have their skills developed further,” said Tengku Zafrul.

       He also announced tax exemptions for cash prizes won at selected eSports tournaments to further incentivise players.

       eSports had previously received an allocation three years in a row – it was previously granted RM15mil under Budget 2021, RM20mil in Budget 2020 and RM10mil in Budget 2019.