Sukma: The Sabah e-sports contingent is targeting two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze at this edition of the Malaysia Games (SUKMA). Sabah E-sports Team Manager Mohd Sofihizar Usrah emphasized their focus on the Street Fighter 6, eFootball Mobile (Duo), and Women's E-Chess events.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the state team is composed of 22 athletes, a team manager, eight coaches, a chaperone, and two kitmen. Sabah is competing in five categories: Men's and Women's Mobile Legends Bang Bang (MLBB), Street Fighter 6, eFootball Mobile, and E-Chess. The e-sports events are being held at the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) Convention Centre and began yesterday, concluding on August 23.

Mohd Sofihizar detailed that athlete preparations commenced in mid-April, progressing from a "long list" to a "short list" selection, followed by a training camp and continuous sessions that have shown improvements. However, he mentioned that e-sports being classified under "Category B" in Sabah poses funding challenges, impacting management.

The team's budget constraints include nine days of accommodation and round-trip flight expenses, amounting to RM1,500 per person for the contingent. Competition is anticipated to be intense, especially from states heavily investing in e-sports development. Success, according to Mohd Sofihizar, will rely on gameplay skills as well as mental resilience and teamwork.

Almost all the athletes are experienced players with significant tournament participation history both within and outside Sabah. Mohd Sofihizar highlighted the importance of athletes' health, rest, and hydration due to the demanding schedule from 8 am to 10.30 pm.

He urged athletes to maintain focus and mental resilience, acknowledging that unexpected outcomes are possible and even top players have faced challenges in reaching finals. He expressed hopes for community support and aspirations for e-sports to be recognized under "Category A" to foster growth and talent development in the sport.