KUCHING: A friendly pickleball tournament between the Sarawak Government Welfare and Sports Council (MAKSAK) Sarawak and the GPS Backbenchers served as a platform to strengthen ties between elected representatives and state civil servants.
Held at Star Pickleball Kuching here yesterday (May 16), the tournament marked the first pickleball event organised involving both parties.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officiated at the symbolic opening ceremony with a kickoff pickleball rally after taking time to mingle and pose for photographs with participants.
Following the opening session, he received a pickleball paddle as a souvenir from State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and Kuching Pickleball Association president Ruslan Bujang, in addition to an appreciation plaque presented by Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Phang.
Speaking to reporters afterwards, Abu Bakar said the programme was organised to provide an opportunity for backbenchers and civil servants to engage in recreational activities while fostering closer camaraderie.
He said all parties had been working hard throughout the week in conjunction with the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting, making the programme a suitable avenue to create a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere between both groups.
“We are taking the opportunity this weekend to engage in recreation while strengthening relationships between the backbenchers and members of the civil service,” he said in an UKAS report.
He added that although pickleball is still considered a relatively new sport, the response received was highly encouraging, including from participants who were trying the game for the first time.
Abu Bakar also expressed confidence that the tournament would continue in the future following the positive reception received during its inaugural edition.
