SIBU Pickleball Association is confident the game will become popular in schools.
Under the leadership of president Joseph Chieng and deputy president Ling Shii Ngie, the association recently took a significant step in advancing the paddle sport’s popularity among schools in Sibu, Sarawak.
The introduction of pickleball has garnered positive feedback from school officials and students alike, as it is easy to learn and easily accessible to participants of all skill levels.
In collaboration with Sibu District Education Department, the association will bring the sport to students across the district.
Education Department head Ahli Chikba praised the association’s efforts, noting that introduction of the sport added value to the school sports curriculum and offered students a new and exciting activity.
“We are grateful to Sibu Pickleball Association for their efforts in introducing this sport to our students.
“It not only fosters physical health but also encourages teamwork and discipline,” said Ahli.
Chieng, who is also Bukit Assek assemblyman, expressed excitement about the initiative.
“Pickleball is a growing sport globally, and we are thrilled to bring it to our local schools.
“It is a fantastic way to get our young people active and engaged in a new sport that is both fun and competitive.”
He also highlighted the importance of support from local education authorities and hoped pickleball would soon become a regular fixture in school sports programmes across Sibu.
The association, he said, planned to conduct more training sessions and provide necessary equipment to ensure the sport gained momentum.
“With positive response from education officials and schools, pickleball is set to become a popular sport among students in Sibu,” he added.