SIBU: The introduction of streaming platforms, as well as improvements to mobile technology, has allowed e-sports to become a rapidly expanding industry.
Realising its potential, the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) is planning to set up an e-sports centre on the university campus to spearhead the development of eSport among universities in Sarawak.
Its chairman, Dr Annuar Rapaee said UTS has the necessary infrastructure for the establishment of an e-sports centre.
“With the establishment of this e-sports centre in the future, UTS will be able to spearhead the e-sports development among universities in Sarawak through innovating new games and produce a pool of talents for Sarawak in this sport, which is fast gaining international traction.
“With (our UTS student) Nadrah Saufi, competing in the e-sports competition at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, she could also share her experience for the setting up of an e-sports centre in UTS,” he said.
He told reporters after a brief send-off ceremony at Sibu Airport for Nadrah Saufi today.
When asked about some parents who are still reluctant to allow their children to participate in e-sports, Dr Annuar, who is Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development said it could be due to concern that children might get addicted to the game and neglect their studies.
“To me, it is all about self-discipline. Take Nadrah for example, she is involved in e-sports and yet, still excels in her studies at UTS.
“And with e-sports now in Commonwealth Games, I am sure (it will also compete in the) Olympics in future,” he said.
Nadrah, 25, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Technology Management programme at UTS, will compete in the e-sports competition at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England from Aug 1 to 8.
She will compete in the Dota 2 Women Division and during the send-off, both Dr Annuar and UTS vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Khairuddin Abdul Hamid gave her encouragement.
“We are very proud of her. She has done the country, state, and UTS proud. We wish her all the best in her quest to bring glory to the country and the state,” he said.
Also present was Nadrah’s father, Saufi Sepawi.
