APU’s Valorant Team: National champs, shines in Asia

The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation‘s (APU) eSports Club VALORANT Team has showcased remarkable prowess and dedication, securing notable positions both nationally and regionally.

In a triumph of skill and determination, the team emerged victorious in the inaugural Campus Legends Malaysia 2023 tournament and achieved a commendable 2nd place finish in the Campus Legends MY/SG/PH Regional 2023 tournament.

APU VALORANT dominates campus tournaments

Five members of the APU VALORANT Team – Kieran Matthew Gon Jian Ren, Darwish Hakim Bin Nazari, Chen Joon Er, Ali Javaid, and Timothy Lee Weng Jee – clinched the 1st place in the Campus Legends Malaysia 2023 tournament.

The national competition, organised by the Singapore Cybersports and Online Gaming Association (SCOGA), witnessed intense online battles where APU emerged undefeated against formidable opponents from other Malaysian universities.

“Our APU eSports VALORANT Team showcased exceptional skill and determination, securing 1st place in the Campus Legends Malaysia without losing a single match against other Malaysian universities,” said Matthew Wee Ann Poh, APU eSports Club Lecturer-Advisor.

From national champions to regional contenders

Following their national victory, APU’s VALORANT Team progressed to the Regional Grand Finals held on December 3rd, 2023.

The Regional Grand Finals featured teams from Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines. Despite facing formidable challenges, APU’s team demonstrated resilience, reaching an intense final against Singapore and securing an impressive 2nd place.

“The Regional Grand Finals witnessed a clash of talents from Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines. APU’s team faced fierce challenges, leading to an intense final against Singapore,” explained Matthew Wee.

This remarkable achievement is underlined by the strong foundation laid at APU, which was appointed by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) as the first eSports Focused Sports Centres (FSC) Programme Coordinator in mid-2023.

The recognition includes a grant fund of RM100,000 from 2023 to 2025, positioning APU as a pioneer in fostering a supportive environment for students interested in eSports.

The APU eSports Club, established in January 2015, has played a crucial role in nurturing gaming enthusiasts. The club’s comprehensive support, including coaching, practice facilities, equipment, and competition travel fees, aligns with APU’s commitment to providing quality education.

As the eSports landscape evolves, APU continues to be at the forefront, shaping well-rounded talents and contributing significantly to the gaming industry.

The journey of the APU eSports Club VALORANT Team in the Campus Legends 2023 tournaments reflects the university’s commitment to empowering young talent and fostering a positive gaming culture on campus.