KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Electronic Sports Association (Persues) has reached a new milestone by bridging esports and the creative economy through the launch of its official apparel line for the Sabah Games 2025 (Saga 25).
In just two months before the Games, Persues sold more than 2,300 apparel pieces, generating over RM96,000 in revenue — more than double its previous record of RM42,000 from the Sukma jersey collection.
The project brought together professional designers and young creative talents, with four graphic design students joining Persues’ senior designer to co-create designs that resonated with buyers.
Much of the appeal came from district-themed jerseys that reflected Sabahans’ deep emotional attachment to their hometowns.
“This success proves that esports can be a powerful catalyst for the creative economy,” said Persues President Chucky Cheoh, adding that the initiative lays the foundation for a wider creative ecosystem around esports.
Persues is also investing in digital innovation through an app development project led by Universiti Malaysia Sabah student Ahmad Fahmi Masapar, which allows users to design and sell their own jerseys using AI tools.
The project, fully funded by Persues, aims to empower youth to earn income through creativity, whether part-time or full-time.
Chucky said the jersey market in Sabah is worth more than RM30 million, with over RM20 million coming from sports and event jersey printing, and that Persues wants young people to share in this opportunity.
The initiative marks Persues’ first major step in building a creative economy within the esports ecosystem, positioning apparel as the foundation for future local talent and brand development.
