KUALA LUMPUR — Banter and taunting are common in sports, but disrespect—especially towards a national flag—is unacceptable and crosses the line.
Two incidents of disrespect toward the Jalur Gemilang within the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) community have sparked outrage, prompting the Malaysia Esports Federation (MESF) to condemn those involved.
The first incident involved American player Michael “MobaZane” Cosgun, who was in Kuala Lumpur for the Swiss stage of the M6 World Championships starting November 28.
Cosgun posted an Instagram story insulting the Malaysian flag, labelling it “noob.” He has since deleted the post and issued a public apology.
The second incident concerned the misrepresentation of the Jalur Gemilang by the MLBB Professional League Indonesia (MPL ID).
Following Malaysia’s 2-1 victory over Indonesia in the semi-finals of the World Esports Championships, MPL ID posted an incorrect version of the Malaysian flag on their Instagram page, displaying only 11 red and blue stripes instead of the correct design.
These incidents have triggered widespread discontent, with MESF demanding public apologies from both parties and an explanation from the game’s developer, Moonton Games.
The MESF has also called on Moonton to take firm action to address these disgraceful incidents.
“The Malaysian Esports Federation strongly condemns these recent acts of disrespect towards the Malaysian flag within the Mobile Legends esports community.
“We demand public apologies from the parties involved and the implementation of stricter guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future. Firm action from Moonton is crucial to ensure fairness and respect within the esports community.
“MESF expects Moonton to respond within seven days to uphold harmony and professionalism in esports,” MESF said in a statement. — November 18, 2024