Photo Credits to: Gempak
The Pickleball Playground lived up to its name on September 6 as the Bragg Pickleball Challenge 2025 transformed the venue into a whirl of serves, laughter, and rally scoring. Organized by Bragg Malaysia in collaboration with BIG Pharmacy and CARiNG Pharmacy, the event drew more than 160 players and about 300 spectators, according to the organizers, blending competition with community.
Pickleball—a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and table tennis—has been gaining traction across Southeast Asia. The Bragg Challenge pushed that momentum into the mainstream by welcoming families, fitness newcomers, and seasoned players, and by explaining core terms such as the “kitchen” (the non-volley zone near the net) for first-timers.
A Sport for Everyone
The tournament featured four categories: Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and an exhibition match pitting Bragg staff against teams from BIG Pharmacy and CARiNG Pharmacy. While the competition was sharp, the tone stayed friendly and accessible.
Local coach-creator Kid Chan (@iamkidchan) helped demystify rules and court etiquette for beginners throughout the day. The event also drew media and lifestyle buzz: Hitz FM announcer Prem Shanker (@premosupremo) energized the crowd and the feed, while lifestyle influencer Jane Teh (@janeravissante) shared behind-the-scenes moments from the sidelines.
Photo Credits to: Gempak
Wellness Meets Retail Activation
Bragg Malaysia used the tournament to underline its wellness ethos, spotlighting staples such as Organic Apple Cider Vinegar alongside Sunblast Organic Juice and Bob’s Red Mill products. Retail partners BIG Pharmacy and CARiNG Pharmacy added to the experience with exhibition-match cameos and exclusive goodies for participants and winners.
“Health is not only about treatment, but also about building habits and creating shared experiences that promote happiness and wellbeing,” said Mr. Foo Fung Jiun, Business Unit Director of the Beauty, Baby & Health Food category at BIG Caring Group. “Through this tournament, we hope to show that being active can also be fun, inclusive, and sustainable for everyone.”
Community at the Core
What resonated most wasn’t celebrity wattage but everyday Malaysians—kids, parents, retirees, and curious first-timers—who filled courts and stands. The day reinforced the sport’s accessible appeal: competitive without being intimidating, social without being overwhelming.
As medals went out and photo ops wrapped, Bragg Malaysia signaled continuity. “We’re not treating this as a one-off,” a company representative said, adding that “pickleball has real potential to bring people together, and we want to be part of that journey.” The comments align with the brand’s ongoing push for real-world wellness engagement.
If the Bragg Pickleball Challenge 2025 is any indication, pickleball has planted deep roots in Malaysia—fed by inclusive play, brand-backed wellness, and community energy. Whether you’re chasing a new fitness routine or just pickleball-curious, this is a sport worth a try: borrow a paddle, mind the kitchen, and discover why so many left Shah Alam with wide smiles and pleasantly sore arms.
