Kuala Lumpur – Former Formula 1 driver Alex Yoong has been appointed as the national coach for Malaysia’s e-racing squad, signaling a strategic investment in the burgeoning esports scene ahead of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games and the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Kuala Lumpur. The appointment, announced on March 6, 2026, aims to bolster the country’s competitive edge in e-racing, a discipline gaining prominence on the international stage.
The move reflects a growing recognition of esports as a legitimate sporting activity, with increasing investment and official support. According to the Malaysia Electronic Sports Federation (MESF) president Naim Al Amin Saharudin, Yoong’s experience and technical expertise are expected to provide a structured and high-impact training program for the national team. This appointment comes as Malaysia seeks to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving world of competitive gaming.
Strengthening Malaysia’s Esports Program
Yoong’s full-time duties will begin in April, allowing ample time to prepare the team for the challenges ahead. The 2026 Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, will feature e-racing as one of its medal events. The 2027 SEA Games, hosted in Kuala Lumpur, will further elevate the profile of e-racing within the region. The MESF is aiming to capitalize on home-ground advantage at the 2027 games.
This isn’t just about e-racing, however. The MESF has also included esports athletes in the National Sports Council (NSC) Podium Programme for the first time, marking official recognition of these athletes. For the full-time category, the program includes titles such as eFootball, Identity V, and e-Racing. The women’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang squad has been placed in the semi-podium category, while the men’s squad is in the phased category, demonstrating a broad commitment to supporting various esports disciplines.
Asian Games Qualification and Esports Expansion
Malaysia has already automatically qualified for the Honor of Kings competition at the Asian Games. Qualifying rounds will be held to determine participation in the remaining 10 titles contested at the games. The inclusion of esports in multi-sport events like the Asian Games and SEA Games underscores its growing legitimacy and appeal, attracting a younger demographic and fostering a competitive spirit.
The rise of esports is also impacting the broader sporting landscape. The MESF’s collaboration with the NSC signifies a shift in perspective, acknowledging the potential of esports to contribute to national sporting success. This partnership is expected to provide athletes with access to resources and support previously reserved for traditional sports.
The appointment of Yoong, a well-known figure in Malaysian motorsport, is a strategic move to leverage his experience and credibility within the racing community. His insights are expected to be invaluable in developing a competitive e-racing program that can challenge the best in the region.
As reported by The New Straits Times, Naim Al Amin Saharudin emphasized the importance of Alex’s appointment in strengthening the country’s e-Racing programme.
The growing popularity of e-racing, fueled by advancements in technology and increasing accessibility, is attracting a new generation of athletes and fans. The sport offers a unique blend of skill, strategy, and precision, mirroring the demands of traditional racing but in a virtual environment.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on building a robust training program, identifying and nurturing talent, and preparing the national team for the challenges of the Asian Games and SEA Games. The success of the e-racing squad could pave the way for further investment in esports and inspire more young Malaysians to pursue their passion for competitive gaming.
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