Selangor to intensify pickleball events to produce professional talent

By Sheeda Fathil

SHAH ALAM, June 22 — The Selangor government will intensify pickleball events to encourage more interest, especially among state residents, in the sport.

State executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi said though the sport is still new in Malaysia, he believes pickleball has the potential to grow and produce much professional talent.

[caption id="attachment_361342" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Players in action at the PREC Pickleball Championship and Arena Track And Sport court launch at SACC Mall, Shah Alam, on June 22, 2024. — Picture by NUR ADIBAH AHMAD IZAM/SELANGORKINI[/caption]

“I am drawn to pickleball, which combines badminton, tennis and ping pong, which are suitable for all ages.

“Congratulations to PKNS Real Estate Sdn Bhd (PREC) for organising this event today, it was a good effort to introduce the new sport of pickleball.

“God willing, this will be an early step for the state government to support PREC initiatives, and we will discuss holding more such events to draw more people,” he said after officiating the PREC Pickleball Championship and launching the Arena Track And Sport (ATAS) court at SACC Mall here today.

[caption id="attachment_361343" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] State executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi partakes in a gimmick for the PREC Pickleball Championship and Arena Track And Sport court launch at SACC Mall, Shah Alam, on June 22, 2024. — Picture by NUR ADIBAH AHMAD IZAM/SELANGORKINI[/caption]

Najwan praised PREC for its initiative to develop ATAS, which is seen as in line with the state administration’s goal to empower a sports culture.

“I believe this facility will be a new attraction for Shah Alam residents, and promote a healthy lifestyle,” he said.

Nine teams went head-to-head during the championship. They are as follows: