KUALA LUMPUR: Developer Moonton Games, with strong backing from the Sports Ministry and Esports Integrated (ESI), are looking to take Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) to the next level in Malaysia this year.
Moonton unveiled their MLBB roadmap for 2024 today which is intended to strengthen the game's ecosystem through various initiatives.
This includes the introduction of a new developmental series dubbed MLBB Academy League Malaysia (MAL MY), which will be jointly organised by Moonton and IO Esports.
MAL MY will unify various development competitions and serve as a bridge between grassroots and professional competitions as the top teams will have the chance to earn promotion to the MLBB Professional League Malaysia (MPL MY).
MPL MY, which moves into season 13 and 14 this year, will also have a permanent home as Stadium MBSJ Serdang Jaya has been confirmed as the official venue for both seasons.
The season 14 playoff will also be held in Johor as part of MPL's partnership with Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor Sdn Bhd. It will be the first time MPL teams will be competing outside of the Klang Valley.
Sponsors Hotlink also announced an expanded partnership with Moonton which will see them working closely with the latter to fully optimise their network to deliver the best experience for MLBB gamers.
Deputy Sports Minister Adam Adli, who officiated the event, is optimistic of MLBB's future in Malaysia.
"This is a new era brimming with possibilities," said Adam in his speech.
"Let's embrace the future of esports in Malaysia and make it a thriving platform for competition, community and national pride."