MIRI: With standout performances in both individual and team events, the Miri Closed Pickleball Mayfest 2025 delivered fierce competition and memorable victories, headlined by Paragon X Santoh Pro’s team triumph and a golden double for Mohammad Arif Sapawi.
Held in conjunction with the 20th anniversary celebration of Miri City, the tournament featured stellar showings across all categories.
In the men’s doubles, Aaron Chieng Jin Yu and Mohammad Arif Sapawi claimed the top spot, while Adrienne Yi Ning Chan and Ting Ying Han emerged as champions in the women’s doubles.
Lydia Wong and Mohammad Arif Sapawi teamed up to win the mixed doubles, making Arif a double gold medallist.
The team event was dominated by Paragon X Santoh Pro, who edged out Warrior Panther for first place, while Paragon Ace and Paragon Ultimate settled for third and fourth respectively.
Organised by the Miri Division Pickleball Association to promote pickleball as both a recreational and competitive sport, the tournament was held at the Paragon Pickleball Centre from May 10 to 12 and featured thrilling competition.
The three-day event drew a strong turnout of 92 participants for the individual events and 17 teams, comprising a total of 136 players in the team competition, highlighting the growing popularity of the sport in the region.
The tournament’s primary aim was to encourage camaraderie among players, foster team spirit, and provide athletes with a competitive platform as they prepare for future local, state and national-level events.
Pickleball first made its mark in Malaysia in the city of Miri, Sarawak, making it the birthplace of the sport in the country.
Introduced by a group of passionate pioneers, the sport quickly gained traction among local communities due to its accessibility, fun and inclusive nature.
Since its humble beginnings in Miri, pickleball has grown rapidly, with clubs and tournaments now established across the nation under the guidance of the Malaysia Pickleball Association.
Miri continues to play a key role in nurturing new talent and developing the sport at both grassroots and competitive levels.
The Miri Closed Pickleball Mayfest 2025 marks yet another milestone in the city’s commitment to healthy living, community bonding, and athletic excellence.
With the tournament’s success, pickleball continues to gain momentum in Miri, setting the stage for even larger events in the near future.
