Pickleball Boom in Urban Malaysia
- Erik & Aya
- Nov 12, 2025
- 3 min read
Photo by Aleksander Saks on Unsplash
Pickleball Boom in Malaysia
Pickleball, a new sport from the United States, is becoming increasingly visible across the streets of Kuala Lumpur. In this article, we introduce this exciting and easy-to-start sport that’s capturing attention in Malaysia.
Pickleball: A Perfect Sport for Seniors!
Pickleball, a relatively new sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has been gaining popularity in Malaysia in recent years — especially as an ideal form of exercise for older adults.
One of the reasons for its popularity is that pickleball is easy on the body. Since it is played on a smaller court than tennis, players don’t have to run as much, reducing strain on the knees, hips, and other joints. As people over 60 seek sports that are gentle on the body, pickleball is gaining attention as an ideal option.
Another appeal is the simplicity of the rules. Even beginners can learn the basics after just a few practice sessions, making it accessible for those new to sports.
Moreover, pickleball offers social interaction while staying active — helping not only with physical health but also reducing feelings of isolation and improving quality of life.
Pickleball Courts Rapidly Increasing Across the City
Pickleball is quietly stirring up a craze in Malaysia. What once started as a small activity played in a corner of tennis courts is now seeing the rise of dedicated facilities, highlighting the sport's growing popularity. In Kuala Lumpur, the “Pickle Social Club” has become a hot topic with its integrated space combining pickleball courts, a café, and an event area.
The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has also set up courts in public halls across the city, offering indoor courts for RM40/hour and outdoor courts for RM25/hour.
Rackets and balls for pickleball are often available for rent at the courts, and they can also be easily purchased at sports shops or major supermarkets.
Rising Excitement with International Tournaments
In 2025, the excitement continues. The WPC Asia Pickleball Grand Slam is scheduled for July at One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya, with registration available via the official tournament website. In October, the MATTA Malaysia Pickleball Grand Slam 2025 (MPG2025) will take place in Kuching, Sarawak, offering a total prize pool of RM100,000 and expecting over 1,300 participants from Malaysia and abroad. The event combines sport and tourism and is set to be one of the year’s biggest pickleball highlights.
It might be a great chance to join a tournament and experience the excitement of pickleball firsthand.
Focus on Development and Promotion
In Selangor, efforts are underway to promote and develop pickleball in preparation for its official inclusion in the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA). These initiatives include school and district-level tournaments. Additionally, RM1 million has been allocated to convert outdoor badminton courts in open public spaces into pickleball courts.
In Kuala Lumpur, initiatives are also underway to make the sport more accessible. For example, the courts at Kenanga Hall are open to students for free in the mornings, making it easier for young people to get started with pickleball .
🎾 Pickleball is becoming more familiar in Malaysia.
From beginners and seniors to competitive players aiming for international tournaments, it's gaining attention as a sport enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether for fitness or casual socializing, it might be something worth trying in your daily life.
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📚 Sources
The Star – “Pickleball courts now feature at DBKL community halls”（2025.2.19）https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2025/02/07/pickleball-courts-now-feature-at-dbkl-community-halls
SCOOP-"Pickleball Malaysia to have more dedicated venues, easing tensions with tennis"（2024.12）
New Straits Times (NST)– “Sukma 2026: Status of pickleball depends on state vote”（2025.3.14）
Businesstoday- “Pickleball Fever Hits Malaysia with 2025 Grand Slam”（2025.6.23） https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2025/06/23/pickleball-fever-hits-malaysia-with-2025-grand-slam/
The Star – “Pickleball to be introduced at Sukma 2026, says Selangor MB”（2024.11.15）
Pickleball Stadium – Largest Indoor Pickleball Court in Kuala Lumpur
MPG2025 Official Website – “MATTA Malaysia Pickleball Grand Slam 2025” https://www.mattampg.com/
Pickleball Global Official Website
Pickle Social Club – “Official Website”
