Singaporeans Enrolled in Courses Related to eSports

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) in the past year, how many Singaporeans have enrolled in courses related to eSports; (b) what are the career prospects for those in the eSports industry; and (c) what is the Ministry doing to expand professional opportunities for youths who are interested in the eSports industry.

The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) has been closely monitoring the rising popularity of esports among our youths.  In August this year, the Ministry organised the inaugural Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) youth esports tournament, Hyperplay, to bring together youths of different backgrounds who share a common passion, as well as to promote greater understanding of ASEAN and build friendships across borders.

Sport Singapore (SportSG) has been supportive of the esports fraternity's efforts to establish a National Sport Association (NSA). As with other sports, the NSA is expected to develop the sport's ecosystem. This includes developing athletes, coaches, officials and administrators for the sport. The NSA will also oversee the development of athletes to represent Singapore, should esports competitions be introduced in future Major Games.

We see that there is private sector interest to develop esports in the region, and this could provide more business and career opportunities for Singaporeans. For example, Razer and Sea, formerly known as Garena, are Singapore-based companies that are active in this space, both in Singapore and the region. Singtel also recently organised the PvP esports Championship in October.

There will be Singaporeans who will want to explore opportunities in this growing industry. Our polytechnics and universities offer programmes in design and media, such as in digital animation and game design. In particular, one of the local esports interest groups, the Singapore Cybersports and Online Gaming Association (SCOGA), has been working with Republic Polytechnic to incorporate esports content as part of the school's Diploma in Sport Management.

We will continue to monitor the development of esports as another area which our youths can express their passions and achieve their potential.