SIBU: Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI) promotes digital literacy and responsible engagement with ever-evolving technology through the Inter-School Mobile Legends Bang Bang Esports Tournament 2026.
MPI Board of Governor chairperson Ling Ching Rou said Esports is one of the emerging industries and has experienced remarkable growth both in Malaysia and globally in the past decade.
She said Esports, once viewed as pure entertainment, has evolved into a recognised platform that develops strategic thinking, communication skills, leadership, teamwork, digital literacy and even professional career pathways.
“This tournament also marks an important milestone in the growth of esports within the Sibu Division. Our journey began three years ago with an Esports workshop followed by an inter-school tournament last year.
“The objectives of this programme are clear. That is to promote digital literacy, encourage responsible engagement with technology, foster sportsmanship and provide students with a healthy platform to develop their talents and interests,” she said at the opening of the Inter-School Mobile Legends Bang Bang Esports Tournament 2026 on June 6 at MPI.
According to her, the Inter-School Honor of Kings Esports Tournament 2026 attracted about 200 participants and supporters from different secondary schools in Sibu.
This year, the tournament attracted about 140 participants and supporters from different schools.
She pointed out that the encouraging response from different schools towards the Esports tournament reflects the growing interest in Esports as a meaningful avenue for learning, collaboration and personal development.
She said Esports brings together technology, creativity, communication, entrepreneurship and talent development.
She explained that effective communication, mutual trust and shared commitment to excellence will lead to the success of a team in Esports.
These qualities, she pointed out, will serve the students well not only in gaming, but also in their studies, future careers and personal lives.
“I hope that the tournament will strengthen friendships among schools, inspire a positive and responsible gaming culture and encourage young people to harness technology creatively, ethically and productively,” she pointed out.
She also mentioned that MPI has always believed in the continuous evolution of education alongside social and technological developments.
She said the institute’s responsibility extends beyond preparing students for examinations but also preparing them for the opportunities and challenges of the future.
Team OCT X ETK from SMK Methodist emerged as the champion in the tournament while team NOVA from SMK Sacred Heart, SMKD The Art of War from SMK Durin and team BT from SMK Methodist finished second, third, and fourth respectively.
Matthew Kira from SMK Methodist was also awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title.
The one-day tournament was organised by Pelawan Premier League and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED), and co-organised by MPI and Sibu Division Esports Association (SDESA).
