AmBank launches Malaysia’s first national pickleball championship

KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with its golden jubilee, AmBank Group proudly unveils the AmBank Malaysia Pickleball Championship 2025.

It is an inaugural national tournament aimed at uniting Malaysians through sport, culture and community.

Set to take place from May 30 to June 1 at Pickle Nation, the championship invites 500 players of all skill levels to participate in a celebration of active living and Malaysian spirit under the banner of ‘Malaysia Kita’.

Marking a first in Malaysia’s sports landscape, this championship is more than just a competition; it is a tribute to community, diversity and youth empowerment.

The tournament is powered by SCORE Sports Management and reflects the growing popularity of pickleball, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.

“We want to celebrate our 50th anniversary through an event that brings ‘Malaysia Kita’ together in action through sport and community.

“This championship aims to unite an active community through a sport that’s fun and uplifting.

“We hope this platform can champion healthier lifestyles, nurture youth sportsmanship and highlight the spirit of ‘Malaysia Kita’,”said Head of Group Corporate Communications and Marketing, AmBank Group, Shazman Shahid.

“We also hope that in the foreseeable future, AmBank will continuously be associated with pickleball, as the official presenter of this sport among Malaysians from all walks of life,”he said.

A highlight of the programme is a dedicated youth coaching session on 1 June 2025.

Tailored to beginners, the two-hour activation will introduce young Malaysians to pickleball through drills, team games and fun exhibition matches led by experienced players.

The session aims to foster confidence, social connections and long-term interest in sports among youth.

“The championship also reflects AmBank’s ongoing sustainability efforts.

“A sneaker recycling initiative is among the eco-conscious activities being explored, with the aim of transforming used sports shoes into material for community tracks or court surfaces – an effort to raise awareness about recycling and environmental impact through sport,”he added.

Additionally, AmBank is inviting all Malaysians to take part in the AmBank 50th Pickleball Relay Challenge, a nationwide virtual relay to “pass the pickleball” across the country.

“This symbolic movement encourages unity, participation and nationwide excitement ahead of the main event,”he said.

Registration is now open via Pickleball Global.

For more updates, follow AmBank Malaysia on social media or visit the official event website.