New Bill could transform Singapore’s esports ecosystem with national support and legitimacy
A Landmark Step for Esports in Singapore
Singapore is on the verge of making history. The Singapore government has proposed a legislative amendment that would officially recognise esports as a sport, putting it on the same level as traditional and mind sports such as chess and bridge.
The Singapore Sports Council (Amendment) Bill 2025, read for the first time in Parliament on November 4th, aims to update the long-standing Singapore Sports Council Act 1973. If passed, it will redefine the country’s understanding of what qualifies as a sport, with esports and mind sports formally included for the first time.
The proposal reflects the nation’s evolving sporting culture and the growing recognition that digital competition now plays a major role in both youth engagement and international events.
What the Bill Proposes
The amendment, numbered Bill No. 19/2025, seeks to expand the role of the Singapore Sports Council (SSC), also known as Sport Singapore (SportSG), beyond traditional athletics.
Under the Bill, SportSG’s remit would grow to include:
- Esports and mind sports like chess and bridge within its official definition of sports
- Accreditation and regulation of facilities, coaching, and equipment
- Athlete development and training institutions for both physical and digital athletes
- Partnership with the Singapore National Paralympic Council, elevating inclusivity in the nation’s sports ecosystem
The amendment also proposes increasing the Council’s membership from 15 to 25 members, allowing for more diverse representation across sporting disciplines.
