Sarex 24 set to ignite Sarawak’s esports scene with grand expo in Kuching this Dec 13

KUCHING (Nov 29): The state’s largest esports event, the Sarawak Esports Expo (Sarex) returns this year from Dec 13 to 15 at the Kuching South City Council event ground, promising an exhilarating showcase of gaming, technology and creativity.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah described Sarex as a platform to foster youth talent and support Sarawak’s ambition to become a leader in the creative and digital industries.

“Sarex 24 is more than just an esports event. It represents Sarawak’s vision to position itself as a regional leader in the creative and digital industries.

“We are proud to support this initiative that empowers our youth, celebrates innovation, and strengthens our global esports presence,” he told a press conference after launching the event, here today.

Sarawak Esports Association president Afiq Fadhli Narawi, who was among those present, said the expo would bring participants together from across the region.

The Sarex 24 organising chairman said the event will gather teams and participants from across the region.

“This third series of Sarex is not only about showcasing esports excellence but also about creating opportunities, fostering regional connections, and celebrating our unique Sarawakian culture,” he said.

To date, over 600 participants have registered, including from Sarawak, Peninsular Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos.

Afiq also mentioned the possibility of participation from Myanmar and Timor-Leste.

The organisers, he added, are targeting 1,000 participants and are encouraging interested parties to register either as participants or exhibitors.

The event will feature competitive gaming titles such as PUBG Mobile (International), Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Tekken 8, eFootball, and rFactor 2.

Adding a vibrant touch to the event will be a cosplay competition.

Visitors can also explore a gaming peripherals exhibition showcasing the latest gaming technology and innovations from renowned brands like Microsoft, MSI, Acer, Asus, Sony, and Logitech.

There will also be interactive zones and workshops led by experts on topics such as esports careers, digital entrepreneurship, and gaming technology trends.

Among the highlights will be workshops conducted by FITGMR, a US-based company specialising in gaming performance, led by its CEO Kristin Anderson.

Professional racing simulator driver Mika Hakimi will also be present to offer coaching sessions and share his expertise.

With its diverse range of activities, Sarex 24 is set to captivate esports enthusiasts, professionals and the broader community, reinforcing Sarawak’s position as a hub for innovation and talent in the digital economy.

Also present at the press conference were Abdul Karim’s deputy minister Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, ministry deputy permanent secretary Desmond Douglas Jerukan, and PC Image managing director Simon Kong.