KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesia launched the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) M7 World Championship on Friday, January 9, 2026, combining competitive gaming with traditional and modern cultural performances, highlighting the country’s growing role as a global esports hub.

The tournament, marking the seventh edition of the MLBB World Championship, will run until January 25, 2026.

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar, who attended the opening, highlighted that the M7 World Championship places Indonesia at the center of the global esports scene.

“Through M7, the world not only witnesses the best Mobile Legends competition but also sees Indonesia’s spirit, creativity, and energy. It shows how technology and competition can bring global recognition and celebration to Indonesia,” Deputy Minister Irene said, on Friday, as quoted by Antara.

The return of the M-series tournament to Indonesia, last held was M4, reaffirms the country’s position as one of the world’s esports hubs. She added that M7 also provides an important momentum for the development of the national esports industry and creative economy.

She praised MLBB developer and publisher Moonton Games for building a professional and sustainable esports ecosystem.

Global Head of MLBB Esports Tiger Xu said the “Rise as One” theme symbolizes the unity of the MLBB community worldwide. “This opening ceremony reflects our vision to combine culture, sports, and entertainment into a single global experience that inspires,” Xu said.

Thanks to the tournament, Jakarta transformed into a live esports stage, combining cultural performances, traditional music, modern choreography, and futuristic visuals representing Indonesia’s rich heritage.

A total of 60 dancers in traditional costumes from various regions performed together to symbolize unity. The ceremony also featured elements of Indonesian mythology, including Kadita, Reog, Leak, and Hudog.

The event’s highlight was the presentation of the M7 trophy by Indonesian MLBB legends Ihsan “Luminaire” Kusudana and Muhammad “Wannn” Ridwan, along with three-time MLBB Women’s Invitational champion Vivi “Vivian” Indrawaty.

A total of 16 teams from different countries will compete for the world championship title. Mobile Legends is among the most popular mobile games globally, with over 1.5 billion downloads and approximately 110 million monthly active users.

The M7 series also includes supporting events such as the M7 Carnival from January 23-25, 2026. The carnival offers open esports and entertainment celebrations with interactive zones, community activities, and music performances.

Indonesian singer-songwriter Stephanie Poetri will headline the main stage, while Naykilla and Jemsii will open the carnival with a music show blending hip-hop and modern dangdut. ***