Kuala lumpur: The Malaysia Esports Federation (MESF) is ready to consider providing special incentives to national esports athletes if they win gold medals at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which will kick off on Saturday (Sept 19). MESF president Muhammad Naim Al Amin Saharudin stated that the incentive would serve as a sign of appreciation for athletes who make history by delivering Malaysia's first gold medal in esports at the Sept 19-Oct 4 Asiad.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Naim mentioned the incentive plans during the MESF Appreciation Dinner and New Logo Launch. He said, "Of course, we will provide an incentive to any athlete who manages to bring home a gold medal. However, I need to discuss with the management first regarding the type of the incentive. I may announce it before they leave for the Asian Games."

Naim expressed optimism about the national esports squad's potential to win gold, particularly in events like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), Honor of Kings (HOK), Identity V, and Gran Turismo 7 (GT7). Malaysia's past achievements in esports include winning two medals at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games: a silver in Arena of Valor, which stands as the country's best achievement so far, and a bronze in Dota 2.

The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games esports competition is scheduled to take place at the Aichi Sky Expo from Sept 23-Oct 2, presenting an opportunity for Malaysian esports athletes to showcase their skills on an international stage.