MLBB announces major format changes for MPL Singapore Season 9

Mobile MOBA title Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) has announced several format changes for Season 9 of its popular regional league, MPL Singapore.

Changes include several first-time initiatives aiming to ‘transform the local esports scene’ in Singapore and the surrounding region.

According to a release, MPL Singapore Season 9 will be ‘the most community-driven edition’ thanks to more opportunities for fans and aspiring MLBB talent to get involved with the league.

Beginning with Season 9, MPL Singapore will move to a roving format resulting in regular season matches taking place across several locations.

“The changes for MPL Singapore highlight our focus on empowering the community and building a sustainable foundation for Singapore’s esports scene,” commented Daniel Chew, Head of Esports for Singapore and Cambodia at MOONTON Games.

“These changes go beyond immediate growth – they’re designed to create lasting impacts for the future moving us toward a more inclusive and robust esports ecosystem.”

The regular season will feature both professional and community rosters competing alongside each other as part of a revised format. The regular season will feature four stages:

The seeded stage will feature five invited MPL Singapore teams competing while the Challenger qualifiers involve up to 64 amateur teams looking to secure a place in the Challenger stage.

The Challenger stage will provide a platform to ‘nurture emerging talent,’ with the top four community teams earning an opportunity to compete against the invited teams from the seeded stage.

Following the conclusion of the regular season, the top four invited teams will earn a place in the playoffs, while the fifth-placed team and Challenger teams will compete in last-chance qualifiers.

Playoffs involves six teams competing for a SGD$40,000 (~£23,075) prize pool and an opportunity to qualify for the MLBB Mid-Season Cup taking place at the 2025 Esports World Cup.

MPL Singapore has also released a video breaking down the format visually.

Alongside format changes, MPL Singapore has announced haircare brand Head & Shoulders as an esports partner alongside CapitaLand, which has become the league’s official Venue Partner.

Head & Shoulders products in Singapore will feature limited-edition packaging promoting the league with characters Zilong and Layla featuring on the brand’s product range.

CapitaLand will assist with event operations as the league travels around Singapore for the first time.