KUCHING: The inaugural Kuching City Cup Pickleball Competition recorded its highest youth participation in Sarawak with 62 players aged seven to 18 taking part.
Bandar Kuching Member of Parliament, Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, said that the young players showcased incredible skill, passion and sportsmanship.
“This historic tournament achieved the highest number of participants for a youth pickleball competition in Sarawak, and was the first grassroots-focused youth tournament in Kuching.
“What made the event even more special was the participation of players from Betong, who went on to win second place in the U18 category.
“Their achievement is even more inspiring as they come from a rural area with limited facilities, but yet managed to shine on this competitive stage,” he said.
He said this after being invited as the guest for the competition organised by the Rotary Club of Kuching Central in collaboration with Bandar Kuching Service Centre at Pikabol Kuching on Saturday.
Recognising the importance of promoting healthy and active lifestyles, Dr Yii allocated RM50,000 to the Rotary Club of Kuching Central to host the event and encourage the growth of pickleball in the community.
The funds will also support the club’s upcoming community projects, ensuring the spirit of giving and development extends beyond the courts.
“Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that has been steadily gaining popularity across Malaysia, including here in Sarawak.
“I want to see Sarawak become one of the main power-house for pickleball in Malaysia – and may it continue to grow and bring medals to our beloved nation and beyond.
“For this to happen,it is important we develop this sport from the grassroot level and allow our school children the best environment to succeed in this sport,” he added.
He said the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes, made it essential to promote sports and physical activity across all age groups.
“This event not only encourages healthy living but also nurtures young talent for the future,” he said.
