SIBU: The opening of the Inaugural Sibu Division Inter-Secondary School Pickleball Competition 2025 today is a historic moment for Sibu, and perhaps for Malaysia as a whole.
Pointing this out, Bukit Assek Assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek, said according to the Malaysia Pickleball Association (MPA) Acting President, Delima Ibrahim, this could very well be the inaugural inter-secondary school pickleball competition in the country.
“Sibu has made history today, and each of you, our young players, are pioneers of this milestone,” he said at the event’s opening ceremony held at SMI Pickleball Centre here.
A total of 16 teams from 13 secondary schools are participating in the two-day championship organised by Sibu Pickeball Association (SPA).
Chieng, who is also SPA President, said pickleball may be a relatively new sport in Malaysia, but its growth has been rapid and inspiring.
He stated that It is easy to learn, fun to play, and most importantly, it builds discipline, teamwork and resilience.
“Here in Sibu, we have already seen encouraging progress this year. On April 30, 11 schools came together for the Joint Installation Ceremony of their pickleball clubs. What a remarkable start for the youth sport development programme in Sibu.
“On June 7, SPA hosted the Certified Instructor Course Level 1 with 34 participants, including two from Kuching and four from Sarikei, all of whom graduated successfully.
“We also celebrated their achievement with a certificate presentation ceremony. These milestones show how strongly pickleball is taking root in our schools and community.
“Through this competition, I hope our students will not only compete with passion, but also learn the values of sportsmanship: respect for teammates, opponents, referees, and the game itself.
“These are qualities that will serve you well in both sports and life,” Chieng said.
Pointing out that the tournament also provides an important platform for talent development, he believed that new stars will emerge from among the participating teams to represent Sibu, Sarawak, and even Malaysia, in pickleball at the national and international stages.
At the same time, he further stated that SPA will also be selecting the Sibu Division Under-18 players through the competition, to ensure that Sibu Division is well-prepared with young, talented athletes who can continue to carry the torch forward.
On behalf of SPA, Chieng expressed his deepest appreciation to the Sibu Division Education Department for their support, the school principals and teachers for encouraging their students, and the coaches and team managers for guiding these young players.
He also extended his gratitude to generous sponsors: WTK, KTS, Grolite Group, and Chickilicious, for their support has made the inaugural competition possible and demonstrates their commitment to youth development and sports in the community.
“Most importantly, thank you to the student players, the heart of this event. Without your enthusiasm and commitment, this historic competition would not be possible.
“To all the players, play your best, respect your opponents, and enjoy the game. Winning is important, but the greatest victory is the friendships you make, the skills you sharpen, and the memories you create.
“I warmly invite parents, families and the public to stay with us, cheer for the players, and support the growth of pickleball in our schools,” Chieng added.
