KUCHING: Sarawak Tribune’s Alverdtekoster Anyap once again proved his consistency on the virtual track, clinching the Best Driver award at the Initial M Media SIM Racing Grand Prix 2025 finals.
He clocked a lap time of 2:07.885 at the Sepang International Circuit to finish fourth overall at Metadise Sim Racing, The Podium, here today.
Alverdtekoster had earlier distinguished himself in the qualifying round on August 2, where he clocked the fastest lap of the day at 1:36.040 at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, securing his spot in the finals and earning him the Best Driver title.
The final race saw Asyraf Halim crowned champion, followed by Faizal Ahmad (KDJA) in second place, and Roystein Emmor (The Borneo Post) in third.
Sarawak Tribune also fielded a second driver, Einstein Unji, who joined Alverdtekoster in representing the newsroom in the high-octane competition.
For the record, the Grand Prix brought together finalists from seven Sarawak media organisations, highlighting the press’ role in elevating emerging sports while extending the reach of e-sim racing and reflecting the discipline, sportsmanship, and innovation that define the e-sports community.
Metadise Electronic Sports Club (MESC) President, Afiq Fadhli Narawi, said that Sim racing holds untapped potential for community building in Sarawak.
“Beyond being a game, it connects people, nurtures local talent, and fosters a shared sense of purpose.
“Looking ahead, Metadise is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of youth and community members to embrace sim racing, not merely as a sport, but as a powerful platform for personal growth and opportunity.
“Our aspiration is to transform sim racing into a meaningful pathway for talent development, opening doors to future careers in e-sports, motor sports, engineering, and cutting-edge technologies,” he said.
Hazel Communication & Solutions (HazelComms) Managing Director, Hazel Jasni, added that media plays a critical role in shaping how e-sports is understood.
“Too often, e-sports is dismissed as ‘just a game’. Through media coverage, we can highlight the strategy, discipline, and innovation behind e-sim racing.
“This changes public perception, showing it as a sport that unites technology and talent, connects enthusiasts worldwide, and aligns with Sarawak’s digitalisation agenda.
“By telling these stories, media professionals not only amplify the competitive spirit but also position Sarawak as an emerging player in the global e-sports movement,” she said.
Meanwhile, KDJA President, Ronnie Teo, said that this event was a brilliant reminder that behind every headline and news report are people who are always ready to embrace new challenges.
“On behalf of KDJA, I want to extend a huge congratulations to all the media teams who participated. It wasn’t easy; many of us went from zero experience to navigating virtual circuits in just a month.
“The Initial M Media SIM Racing Grand Prix gave us a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in Sarawak’s growing e-sports scene.
“KDJA is proud to champion this initiative, as it not only fosters camaraderie among media practitioners but also equips us with firsthand knowledge to report on the digital economy with greater insight and authenticity.
“We look forward to making this event an annual tradition!,” he said.
