Sibu is taking center stage as the city will host the first-ever Borneo Pickleball Workshop and Forum, a groundbreaking two-day event dedicated to growing pickleball in Malaysia and across Borneo. Held on August 27-28, 2025 at the Kingwood Hotel Sibu, the forum is expected to draw 200 to 300 participants - including players, coaches, referees, club operators, and pickleball enthusiasts from Sarawak, Sabah, and Semenanjung.
“This forum marks a significant step forward in growing the sport across the region by bringing together thought leaders, experts and passionate advocates of pickleball,”
Said Dr Wong Chya Wei, president of the Iplay Swan Squad Pickleball Club (IPSS).
The event will be officially opened on August 27 by Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, with support from Business Events Sarawak (BE Sarawak) helping make the forum a reality.
A Packed Program for the Regional Pickleball Community
The forum’s dynamic two-day schedule aims to inspire, educate, and connect the pickleball community in Malaysia and beyond.
Key highlights include:
- Panel dialogue and sharing sessions featuring speakers from the Sarawak Sports Council, Malaysia Pickleball Association, Courtsite, and seasoned court operators.
- Sports injury and rehabilitation seminar - “Providing practical insights into injury prevention and recovery, vital knowledge for players and coaches alike,” Wong emphasized.
- CPR and AED workshop - “It will be open to the general public from all walks of life… and we highly encourage group bookings for communities, associations and institutions,” Wong noted.
Building Capacity: Referees & Court Development
With the rapid growth of pickleball tournaments in Malaysia, the forum also focuses on developing much-needed infrastructure and expertise:
- A dedicated referee workshop will help train new referees and linesmen - critical for supporting the expanding tournament circuit and the formation of new pickleball clubs in schools.
- An exhibition space will showcase solutions for pickleball court construction, court reservation systems, as well as offering paddles, sportswear, bags, and shoes for purchase.
- A demonstration court inside the hotel ballroom will allow attendees to test paddles and enjoy a special junior exhibition game - offering a preview of the sport’s vibrant next generation.
Special Perk: Sunset River Cruise for Early Participants
Adding to the excitement, Wong announced: “As a special token, the first 100 paying participants will enjoy a complimentary Sunset River Cruise on August 27.”
A Collaborative Effort to Grow Pickleball in Asia
Present at the press conference were Donny Tan (BE Sarawak business development senior manager), Cr Jenny Ting (IPSS secretary), and Benjamin Tian (Selkirk Malaysia sales manager, IPSS vice president and coach).
The Borneo Pickleball Workshop and Forum promises to be a landmark event - empowering the pickleball community in Asia, accelerating growth of the sport, and bringing together players, coaches, and enthusiasts from all corners of Malaysia and Borneo.
Whether you’re a seasoned player, a beginner, or a club leader looking to grow pickleball in your community, this forum offers an unmatched opportunity to connect, learn, and get inspired.
