Media gears up for Initial M SIM Racing Grand Prix finale in Kuching | Borneo Post Online

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KUCHING (Aug 2): Kuching media practitioners are revving up for the finals of the inaugural Initial M: Media SIM Racing Grand Prix, taking place this morning at Metadise Electronic Sports Club (MESC).

The event is a collaboration between MESC, Hazel Communication & Solutions Sdn Bhd (HazelComms), and the Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA).

It brings together 17 journalists from nine media organisations in a dynamic shift from traditional storytelling to immersive virtual racing, showcasing the potential of the platform for marketing, branding, and audience engagement.

The qualifying rounds determined seven elite teams that will advance to the Final Time Attack Round on Aug 30, where they will compete for the championship title on a simulated Sepang Circuit.

"What we're seeing with the Initial M Sim Racing Grand Prix is the media taking the lead in a new kind of race, one that blends digital innovation with real audience impact.

"This initiative not only showcases the power of immersive engagement, but also sets the stage for corporate brands to harness sim racing as a bold, interactive platform.

"The media have kicked off the momentum and now it's time for the corporate world to get behind the wheel," said MESC president Afiq Fadhli Narawi.

This pioneering competition positions e-sim racing as a strategic platform that connects media professionals, unlocks new content possibilities, and encourages innovative collaboration within the industry.

"This event flips the script, journalists aren't just reporting the news, they're part of it now. It's a new frontier where media and motorsport converge in real time.

"It exemplifies a progressive model for brand-media collaboration within the evolving e-sports landscape," said Hazel Jasni, Managing Director of HazelComms, highlighting its strategic impact.

Kuching Division Journalists Association president Ronnie Teo commended the programme, saying that the event serves as an opportunity for Kuching media to experience sim racing firsthand through this inaugural tournament.

"We the media typically observe and report from the sidelines, so having the chance to truly experience and immerse ourselves in the world of sim racing gives us a deeper appreciation and a better understanding of the sport's potential.

"We look forward to more of such engagements in the future to continue broadening the media's horizons," said Teo.

The Aug 30 final promises a high-energy showdown with awards, exclusive recognitions, and high-value content opportunities that aim to boost media visibility and brand partnerships alike.

With skill, strategy, and passion converging in the finale, the event is set to deliver an unforgettable celebration of creativity, competition, and community spirit.

The organisers also called on interested corporate brands in exploring partnership opportunities for the Final, and they may reach out to the organisers.