SIBU: The Sibu Methodist Schools Alumni Association (SMSAA) has fully sponsored the construction of three pickleball courts at SMK Methodist at a cost of RM82,000, reinforcing its commitment to youth development, healthy lifestyles and holistic education.
Bukit Assek assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek, who is also the SMSAA president, officiated at the courts’ opening ceremony.
He said the project reflected the alumni association’s continued responsibility towards its alma mater and its focus on supporting students beyond academics.
“Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports, was highlighted as an inclusive activity that promotes teamwork, discipline and physical fitness.
“Its growing prominence was evident during the inaugural Sibu Division Inter-School Pickleball Tournament 2025 held on Sept 5 last year, which saw participation from 16 teams representing 13 schools,” he added.
He said SMK Methodist fielded two teams, both of which advanced to the quarterfinals.
He noted that pickleball’s selection as a demonstration sport for Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2026 in Selangor further strengthened its future prospects at the national level.
With the completion of the new facilities, he pointed out that SMK Methodist becomes the third school here to have pickleball courts within its compound, following Catholic High School and Woodlands International School, further positioning Sibu as a key centre for pickleball development in Sarawak.
“The RM82,000 contribution was not merely an investment in infrastructure but in students’ physical wellbeing, character development and future potential,” Chieng added.
SMK Methodist Principal, Philip Lau and SMK Methodist Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) chairman, Ting Wei Ping were also present.
