09-Apr-2025,07:30 PM The esports ecosystem in Southeast Asia is rapidly evolving, and MPL Malaysia is at the forefront of this transformation. In a strategic move to foster long-term sustainability and competitive stability, MPL Malaysia is reportedly “seriously considering” the adoption of a franchise model as part of its broader Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) growth strategy. This shift could reshape the league’s structure, offering stability for teams, more opportunities for players, and greater involvement from sponsors and stakeholders.
What is MPL Malaysia?
MPL Malaysia: A Cornerstone of SEA Esports
MPL Malaysia (Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League) is one of the most prominent regional esports leagues in Southeast Asia. Managed by MOONTON Games, the developer of MLBB, MPL Malaysia is known for its high-octane gameplay, passionate fan base, and its contribution to grooming world-class MLBB talent.
Since its separation from the combined MPL MY/SG league, MPL Malaysia has grown exponentially in terms of audience reach, prize pools, and talent development. With esports becoming a viable career path, the league has attracted not only players and organizations but also non-endemic sponsors, content creators, and mainstream media.
Why MPL Malaysia is Considering the Franchise Model
Ensuring Long-Term Stability for Esports Organizations
In a traditional tournament structure, teams often face the risk of relegation or exclusion due to inconsistent performance. The franchise model offers guaranteed participation, which helps teams plan long-term investments in player development, infrastructure, and branding.
By adopting this model, MPL Malaysia could provide financial security and strategic stability for teams. This would also enable them to focus on sustainable growth rather than short-term survival.
Learning from MPL Philippines and MPL Indonesia
Both MPL Philippines and MPL Indonesia transitioned to a franchise system in recent years and witnessed notable benefits. These include higher production quality, increased sponsor interest, and a more stable team ecosystem. MPL Malaysia appears to be closely studying these models as it maps its own future.
Expanding Commercial Opportunities
Franchising opens up more commercial avenues—such as shared revenue models, team equity, merchandising rights, and media deals. For sponsors and investors, this offers predictable returns and greater visibility, making MPL Malaysia an even more attractive investment.
What the Franchise Model Might Look Like for MPL Malaysia
Fixed Team Slots with No Relegation
The proposed model may feature a limited number of permanent teams with no relegation or promotion system. These teams would need to buy into the league—either through direct franchising fees or partnerships with existing stakeholders.
Player Contracts and Talent Development
Under the franchise system, organizations will likely be mandated to offer minimum salaries, health benefits, and structured training programs to players. This could greatly enhance the quality of gameplay and increase the professionalism of the scene.
MPL Malaysia could also introduce regulations on player transfers, draft systems, and rookie programs—ensuring a healthy influx of new talent and fair competition.
Stakeholder Reactions to MPL Malaysia’s Franchise Consideration
Esports Teams Welcome the Move
Prominent esports organizations such as Team SMG, HomeBois, and TODAK have reportedly shown interest in the proposed franchise structure. For these teams, it means reduced risk and better return on investment (ROI) from the resources they’ve poured into player management, content creation, and branding.
One anonymous team executive said:
“Franchising will allow us to grow with the league. We’ve seen the impact it had on MPL PH and ID, and we believe Malaysia deserves that same platform.”
Fans Have Mixed Reactions
While many fans welcome the franchise model for bringing professionalism and stability, some express concerns about the potential loss of underdog stories and new team entries. However, MPL Malaysia may still incorporate community tournaments and qualifiers as part of its extended ecosystem to address this.
How MPL Malaysia’s Decision Could Impact SEA Esports
Elevating the Regional Esports Scene
If MPL Malaysia successfully transitions to a franchise model, it will further solidify Southeast Asia’s position as a global esports hub. It may also encourage similar transitions in countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, which are developing MLBB scenes of their own.
Opportunities for Brands and Partners
Franchising will likely draw interest from more non-endemic brands, including financial services, automobile companies, and even government bodies. This could lead to larger prize pools, more job opportunities in esports, and broader audience outreach.
The Road Ahead: When Will MPL Malaysia Announce Its Decision?
While MPL Malaysia has yet to make an official announcement regarding the franchise transition, sources suggest that the league may unveil its decision before the start of the Season 14. Industry insiders believe that discussions are at an advanced stage, with many teams already preparing for the possible structural shift.
MOONTON has also hinted at a larger regional integration plan involving more cross-border events and inter-league play. A franchised MPL Malaysia could easily fit into such a framework, potentially leading to new tournament formats and global exposure.
Conclusion: MPL Malaysia at a Defining Crossroads
As esports continues to move toward institutionalization and long-term viability, MPL Malaysia’s consideration of a franchise model marks a pivotal moment not just for Malaysia, but for the entire MLBB ecosystem in Southeast Asia. The move is being watched closely by players, fans, investors, and rival leagues alike.
While franchising brings its own set of challenges—such as limited entry for new teams and increased operational costs—the benefits in terms of consistency, investment, and growth potential seem to outweigh the risks.
Whether you’re a die-hard MLBB fan, an aspiring esports athlete, or an industry stakeholder, the future of MPL Malaysia promises to be exciting, professional, and game-changing.
