Lee Choong Khay, Astro's Chief of Sports, hailed the inclusion of esports for the 2019 SEA Games in the Philippines.

Esports was announced as a medal sport for the upcoming regional meet on Wednesday, with Mobile Legends: Bang Bang being the first title confirmed by the organisers.

"eGG Network is thrilled that esports is a medal sport at the 2019 SEA Games. We believe this momentous development will accelerate the esports and gaming industry in Southeast Asia.

"eGG Network has organised two seasons of the Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL), and we are excited that Mobile Legends is confirmed as one of the official games.

"MPL has benefited many amateur players, who are now semi-professionals and are recognised for their skill and talent throughout the region.

"We hope that more Malaysian talents will be uncovered through eGG Network tournaments," said Lee.

He also praised Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and the Malaysian Ministry of Youth and Sports for being involved in the local and national esports scene.

"The Ministry of Youth and Sports is a great supporter of esports, as seen at the Kuala Lumpur Major. We want to do our part to help Malaysia identify talented players to win our first gold medal in esports.

"As the Home of Sports, Astro will definitely be covering all Malaysian athletes at the 2019 SEA Games too," Lee added.