Malaysia Reclaims the Throne: Men’s MLBB at IESF WEC 2025

The men’s division of the 2025 International Esports Federation (IESF) World Esports Championship (WEC) concluded in spectacular fashion as the Malaysia National MLBB Team reclaimed the world title with a decisive 3–0 sweep over Cambodia in the Grand Final. With a refined strategic identity, polished macro-control, and standout individual performances, Malaysia proved once again why it remains one of the strongest nations on the global stage for MLBB esports in 2025.

This year’s WEC brought together 19 national MLBB men’s teams, making it the largest edition yet. Teams from across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East converged on Kuala Lumpur from December 3 to 7 The expanded lineup showcased MLBB’s continued global reach and the growing legitimacy of international competition beyond Southeast Asia. This now serves as another proving ground to more up and coming teams in the esports environment of MLBB, giving more opportunities for emerging regions to grow further and attempt to claim the title.

Malaysia’s Dominant Run to the Championship

From group stages to playoffs, Malaysia played with confidence and cohesion. Their disciplined rotations, objective-focused approach, and rock-solid drafting carried them through the bracket with minimal resistance. A notable presence of the Malaysian team was of Coach Arcadia’s, a Filipino coach, coaching for Selangor Red Giants OG Esports in MPL Malaysia. Since the Philippines were absent for this IESF WEC 2025, he was then acquired by Malaysia to represent their country as part of their staff.

In the Grand Final against Cambodia, Malaysia barely gave their opponents any breathing room. Each game saw them securing early lane pressure, controlling turtles and lord timings, and converting map dominance into an insurmountable gold lead.

The 3–0 sweep was a powerful statement of their preparation and maturity as a national squad. This marked the consecutive title of Malaysia in the IESF WEC landscape.

Cambodia earned a well-deserved silver medal, continuing their upward trajectory in competitive MLBB while Turkey shocked many by finishing third after defeating Indonesia, proving that MLBB’s talent pool is no longer concentrated solely in Southeast Asia.

The Philippines’ Absence — Did It Change the Outcome?

Beyond the matches, one storyline resonated strongly among Southeast Asian fans: the absence of the Philippines from this year’s IESF MLBB men’s lineup. One of the biggest talking points surrounding WEC 2025 was the Philippines’ non-participation in the men’s MLBB category.

As a country historically dominant in MLBB, with multiple MPL titles, their absence raised several questions. Many wondered if the lack of PH representation opened the door for other countries to shine. 

Honestly, the answer to that question is not exactly. Malaysia has defeated the Philippine team last year in IESF WEC 2024 Grand Finals, with a clean sweep. Although they were represented by a developmental team in the Philippine MLBB Esports scene, they were picked nonetheless to represent the country.

Malaysia’s performance this year was strong enough to stand on its own merit. Their discipline, drafting, coaching structure, and synergy were championship-caliber with or without Philippine participation. Even if the Philippines had been in the bracket, Malaysia’s form suggests they would still have been a top contender.

However, the competitive landscape was undeniably different:

Bracket Difficulty Changed

With no Philippines in the pool, certain matchups and potential early eliminations didn’t occur. Strong teams did not have to face one of the region’s toughest opponents, potentially changing the emotional and strategic pacing of the tournament.

Narrative and Rivalries Were Missing

PH vs. MY or PH vs. ID matchups traditionally heighten regional tensions and fan engagement. Their absence made WEC 2025 feel less like the “clash of SEA titans” and more like a showcase for rising nations.

Still, the win belongs to Malaysia. They executed flawlessly, prepared comprehensively, and displayed world-class form regardless of which teams were or weren’t in attendance.

Looking Toward the Future

For the Philippines, missing WEC 2025 may serve as a wake-up call. With other SEA nations showing dramatic improvement, every missed international appearance gives rivals more exposure, experience, and confidence. For Malaysia, Cambodia, and Turkey, their podium finishes boost their programs’ legitimacy and momentum heading into 2026.

The 2025 WEC men’s MLBB tournament showed that the competitive ecosystem is deepening. While the Philippines’ absence altered the narrative, it did not diminish the level of play or the value of the championship. Instead, it highlighted the growing diversity of competitive regions and the importance of consistent international participation.

As WEC closes another chapter, one thing is clear: men’s MLBB on the world stage is evolving and the competition is only getting fiercer.