Looking for the LEVEL UP KL 2026 speaker lineup? The event runs 14–16 October 2026 in Kuala Lumpur. That is about two weeks away.
This guide covers what is confirmed, what is still pending and why it matters if you work in games in the US. It also clears up one common mix-up.
What Is LEVEL UP KL 2026?
LEVEL UP KL is Southeast Asia’s premier game developers conference. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) organises it. BES Production is a partner, and MATRADE endorses it.
Quick facts:
- Dates: 14–16 October 2026
- Venue: Connexion Conference & Event Centre (CCEC), Kuala Lumpur
- Edition: 12th
- Time zone: Malaysia is 12 hours ahead of US Eastern Time in October.
The official site splits the event into an industry conference, business matching, an exhibitor floor and a Talent Hub.
Is this the same as HighLevel’s LevelUp? No. HighLevel’s LevelUp is a marketing event in Dallas, held 26–29 October. It features Gary Vaynerchuk, Daymond John and Neil Patel. That lineup is not for this event.
LEVEL UP KL 2026 Confirmed Speakers & Keynotes
At the time of writing, the official site names no LEVEL UP KL 2026 speakers. It describes talks, expert presentations and panel discussions with industry leaders from around the world. Check the announcement page for updates.
Past editions show the likely calibre:
- 2017: over 40 speakers, including people from Square Enix, Marvel Entertainment, Naughty Dog and Riot Games.
- 2019: masterclasses from Unity, Riot Games and Unreal Engine.
- 2025 sponsors: Epic Games, Larian Studios, Double Eleven and Virtuos.
Treat these as context, not a 2026 promise.
LEVEL UP KL 2026 Sessions, Workshops & Agenda
Here is what is confirmed so far:
- Unreal Engine VFX workshop: Production-Ready VFX with Hussin Khan. It is a one-day, hands-on class by EFXCO Academy.
- SEA Game Awards 2026: a dedicated Steam showcase puts regional games in front of a global audience.
- Talent Hub Career Lounge: advice on portfolios and career moves.
- Business Matching: meetings with publishers, investors and game studios.
Tip: Pick your B2B meetings first. Then fit keynotes around them.
Why US Developers Should Attend LEVEL UP KL 2026
Mobile gaming is huge in this region. Sensor Tower reported that global mobile game revenue reached $82.3 billion in 2025.
A Southeast Asia trip offers three things:
- Market access: meet publishers and investors face to face.
- Partners: find co-development and outsourcing studios.
- Support: MATRADE’s endorsement unlocks MDG support for Malaysian exhibitors.
Check visa rules for your passport before you book.
FAQs
What are the upcoming exhibitions in Malaysia in 2026?
LEVEL UP KL (14–16 October) comes first. Later in Kuala Lumpur, listings show Glasstech Asia (10–12 November), Data Center Asia Malaysia and Smart Nation Expo (both 17–19 November).
What is LEVEL UP KL?
It is MDEC’s annual game developers conference. It brings together developers, publishers and investors from Southeast Asia and beyond.
Who are the top 10 mobile game developers?
Rankings shift every month, so no single list stays fixed. Sensor Tower named Tencent the top-grossing mobile game publisher in 2025. In November 2025, Tencent, Century Games, Microfun and NetEase led the Chinese publishers. Check Sensor Tower for the current top 10.
Is Level Up a game?
No. LEVEL UP KL is a conference, not a game. “Level up” is also a common gaming term for gaining a new rank.
Are 87% of games lost?
Not all games. A 2023 study by the Video Game History Foundation found that 87% of classic US games (released before 2010) are not in release. It sampled 1,500 titles.
Conclusion
LEVEL UP KL 2026 is a strong chance to meet the Southeast Asian games industry. Speaker names are still pending, but the workshop, awards and business matching are confirmed. Watch the official announcements for the full lineup, then register.
Abroy John is the Founder and Editor of Asia Pop Fests, where he covers
entertainment news and events from across Asia. He focuses on accurate,
up-to-date reporting on the region’s festivals and pop culture.
