Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia has stated its readiness to host the International Esports Federation World Esports Championship (IESF WEC) 2026, scheduled for December 15-22 at ICE BSD, Tangerang, Banten.
Indonesia Esports Central Board (PB ESI) General Chairman Muhammad Herindra said at a press conference here on Monday that the championship is an opportunity for Indonesia to show its capacity as host of international esports competitions while improving national athletes’ achievements.
“Today I want to convey one message, which is that Indonesia is ready to be the stage for world esports,” Herindra said.
He explained that PB ESI sets three priorities in developing national esports, which are strengthening Indonesia’s capacity as host of international competitions, improving national team achievements, and involving all elements of the esports ecosystem.
According to Herindra, Indonesia has great potential in esports development, supported by a large young population and gaming community.
However, that potential must be followed by development efforts to produce athletes able to excel at the world level.
Herindra also reminded that Indonesia’s success in previous championships must motivate all stakeholders to maintain that achievement.
He said Indonesia’s women’s national team for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) won the world title in 2022 and 2024.
In addition, the IESF named PB ESI the world’s best esports federation in 2024.
“All administrators have an obligation to maintain that achievement,” he said.
Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir assessed that hosting the 2026 championship affects not only esports development but could also strengthen Indonesia’s international image and boost the national economy.
Thohir said 101 countries with about 700 participants are scheduled to take part in the championship.
With potential audiences of about 2,000 people per match, the event is expected to attract thousands of visitors during the championship.
Indonesia has about 154 million gamers, with gaming industry economic potential of Rp36 trillion, he added.
Related news: World esports championship to prep Indonesia for SEA Games: Minister
Related news: Indonesia enters grand final of 14th World Esports Championships
Translator: Arindra, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2026