Aria and Bunny, two prominent women athletes from Malaysia break conventional barriers in the country's gaming Industry.
Malaysia’s gaming industry has seen exceptional growth over the past decade, with mobile gaming at the forefront of this. One of the titles that gained popularity is Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. The game's accessibility and competitive nature have attracted a diverse player base, including a significant number of female gamers.
Based on the Niko Partners market model in 2023, women constitute 53% of gamers in Southeast Asia. This amount exceeds the Asia average of 37%. The Philippines has the highest percentage of female gamers in SEA with 63% of women in the industry.
Sharifah Alia Husna Syed Fakrrurozi, more known as Aria, and Vanessa Natasha Abdullah, or Bunny, are two prominent women athletes from Malaysia. Both talented gamers have shown remarkable skills and commitment in the pursuit of their sport.
Their hard work and perseverance came to fruition when they competed in the 32nd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games held in Cambodia. Aria and Bunny competed fiercely in the women's category, ultimately earning a bronze medal for their country.
The journey of women in the Malaysian MLBB scene is a testament to their determination, skill, and vision. They are not only reshaping the gaming landscape but also setting new standards for what is possible. As they continue to break conventions and inspire others, the future of gaming looks brighter and more inclusive than ever before.
In Malaysia, various initiatives and workshops are being organised to bridge the gender gap in gaming. These programs aim to empower young women by providing them with the knowledge and confidence to excel in the gaming industry as well as to compete alongside men. By fostering a supportive community, these initiatives are crucial in shaping the future of gaming to be more inclusive and diverse.
Educational institutions and private organisations are increasingly recognizing the importance of gender diversity in gaming and are investing in programs that promote female participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, which are essential for game development.
The increasing involvement of women in the MLBB scene in Malaysia is a promising sign for the future of gaming. As more women break into the industry, they bring fresh perspectives and ideas, contributing to the evolution of gaming culture.
