Moonton hits the headline, once again, just a few weeks after the conclusion of their highly-anticipated fourth edition of MLBB World Championship (M4) tournament in Jakarta. But this time, it was their public apology to the Indonesian Esports federation, Pengurus Besar Esports Indonesia (PBESI).
A few days ago, Moonton issued an apology to PBESI via the MPL Indonesia official account, regarding the breach of regulation which took place during MLBB Professional League (MPL) Indonesia Season 10, which concluded in October 2022.
MPL ID acknowledged their irresponsibility in conducting the competition without PBESI ‘s authorization at the time. In addition, they committed to adhere to procedures for upcoming tournaments.
PBESI responded that they did not choose to pursue legal action on this matter. According to regulations issued by the Indonesian government in March 2022, any video game publisher who wants to host an esports competition in Indonesia must obtain a permit from the Indonesia esports federation.
An inside source, however, claimed that PBESI might also be responsible in the misunderstanding between the two.
“There was a misunderstanding. The publisher, at first, was not aware about the new esports regulation in Indonesia,” he explained. He stated that no one heard of the new policy regarding esports tournaments in Indonesia back then, since the regulation was passed immediately after MPL ID S9 concluded.
Furthermore, he was baffled when he learned that PBESI were making fuss over a permit during MPL ID Season 10, which was held from August to October 2022.
“If a permit is mandatory, why did they make a ruckus about it when MPL ID S10 was already underway in October? The MPL ID is widely known since 2019; there’s no way the local esports federation didn’t hear about this tournament!”
Regardless of the ‘breach’, he assured that the standard regulations, such as security protocols and venue permits were fullfilled as usual for MPL ID S10.
“As much as I know, Moonton always pays attention to even smallest detail, including the security and other regulations. Besides, MPL competition already existed before PBESI was formed.”
Moonton has assured that the upcoming MPL ID Season 11 will be organized in accordance to PBESI’s regulation, as they stated that they have reached an agreement with PBESI.
Nonetheless, the way PBESI reacted to this has stirred up strong responses among Indonesia’s esports viewers. Some esports players outside MLBB competition are also voicing their dismay on Twitter.
