From Indonesia to the world, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) has once again proven its global dominance—this time by transforming Jakarta into a living, breathing esports stage. The M7 Opening Ceremony, held on January 9, 2026, marked the official start of the M7 World Championship, delivering a landmark moment not just for MLBB Esports, but for Indonesia’s growing reputation as a global esports powerhouse.
Jakarta Becomes the Heart of MLBB Esports
Under the unifying theme “Rise As One”, the M7 Opening Ceremony celebrated MLBB’s journey from a mobile game phenomenon to one of Indonesia’s most beloved competitive sports—standing proudly alongside football and badminton. Set against Jakarta’s iconic skyline, the ceremony fused cultural heritage, modern production, and competitive spirit into a night that captivated fans worldwide.
The event also signaled the long-awaited return of the M Series World Championship to Indonesia, the first since M4, reinforcing the country’s role as the home of MLBB Esports.
MLBB’s Unmatched Global Impact
As of 2026, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang remains one of the world’s most popular mobile MOBA titles, with over 1.5 billion installs and 110 million monthly active users. According to Esports Charts, MLBB generated 475 million hours watched in 2024, placing it among the biggest names in global sports entertainment.
Indonesia continues to lead the charge, with MPL Indonesia surpassing 100 million hours watched in each of its last five seasons, showcasing the nation’s unmatched passion for the game.
Tradition Meets Technology at the M7 Opening Ceremony
Inspired by the scale of global sporting events, the M7 Opening Ceremony was a cinematic celebration of Indonesia’s cultural identity. Hosted at Batavia PIK, the world’s first overwater shopping and entertainment complex, the ceremony blended tradition and modernity in spectacular fashion.
The opening performance, “Rise in Indonesia”, was led by the Swargaloka Dance Crew and featured 60 dancers representing regions across the archipelago, including:
- Gandrung (East Java)
- Legong (Bali)
- Dayak (Kalimantan)
- Papua (Eastern Indonesia)
- Betawi (Jakarta)
Mythological elements such as Kadita, Reog, Leak, and Hudog were woven into the choreography, highlighting Indonesia’s rich folklore and spiritual heritage.
A National Statement on the Global Esports Stage
Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, attended the ceremony, emphasizing the nation’s growing influence in esports. She highlighted MLBB’s role in uniting creativity, technology, and competition—allowing Indonesia’s passion and energy to be showcased on a global scale.
Meanwhile, Tiger Xu, Global Head of MLBB Esports at MOONTON Games, described Rise As One as more than a theme—it is a message to the global MLBB community. The ceremony, he noted, reflects MLBB Esports’ commitment to honoring culture while pushing innovation forward.
Voices of M7 and the Parade of Champions
One of the most emotional moments of the night came during “Voices of M7: Rise As One”, a powerful choral performance of the M7 theme song Sizzle. As the choir sang, the flags of the 16 Main Stage teams were raised together—each carried by cosplayers portraying Gatotkaca, the MLBB hero inspired by Indonesian folklore.
The segment concluded with a bold message revealed across the stage:
“Rise As One, Let the World See Us.”
Grand Finale: We Rise As One
The ceremony reached its peak with the Grand Finale, as dancers in neon-accented traditional attire merged heritage with futuristic visuals. The M7 Trophy was carried on stage by Indonesian MLBB legends:
- Ihsan “Luminaire” Kusudana (M1 Champion)
- Muhammad “Wannn” Ridwan (M1 Champion)
- Vivi “Vivian” Indrawaty (three-time MLBB Women’s Invitational Champion)
They were joined by Indonesian bodybuilder and Physical Asia star Igede “Igedz Executioner” Dharma Susila, dressed in a Gatotkaca-inspired costume—symbolizing strength, legacy, and national pride.
M7 Carnival Brings MLBB to the Streets
The celebration continues with the M7 Carnival, running from January 23 to 25, 2026, transforming Jakarta into a citywide MLBB festival. Fans can explore six interactive zones, enjoy live performances, and compete for prizes worth IDR 2.5 billion (approximately USD 150,000).
Highlights include:
- Meet-and-greets with MPL Indonesia teams and creators like Jess No Limit, Xinnn, Pascol, Markocop, and Ade
- An All-Star Fun Match led by Vivian, Wannn, and Luminaire
- Live performances by Stephanie Poetri, no na, Dipha Barus, DJ VILOID, Naykilla, and Jemsii
Red Bull will also power the carnival with a dedicated Gaming Ground, featuring high-energy performances, competitive gaming zones, and immersive viewing lounges.
See It, Play It, Live It: MLBB Across Indonesia
Beyond the arena, MLBB is taking over Indonesia’s streets. More than 20 large-scale murals, hand-painted by local artists and inspired by Gatotkaca, were unveiled nationwide. These artworks transform cities into living canvases—celebrating both the game and the players who bring it to life.
Global Fans Join the M7 Experience In-Game
Fans worldwide can participate through special M7 in-game events:
- Log in for 13 days between January 9 and 31 to unlock the Edith “Verdant Knight” skin for free
- The M7 Pass, available until February 8, includes exclusive rewards such as the Gatotkaca “Solar Spark” skin
MLBB’s Continued Esports Dominance
According to Esports Charts, MLBB featured in seven of the ten most popular mobile esports tournaments of 2025. The title also made history at the Esports World Cup, where the Mid Season Cup became the first tournament to surpass 3 million peak concurrent viewers. MLBB’s inclusion as a medalled event at the 33rd SEA Games further cements its status as a true competitive sport.
