New International‑Standard Pickleball Court Opens in Sabah
On 28 June 2025, the ribbon was cut on a sparkling new pickleball complex at The Pacific Sutera Hotel, officially placing Kota Kinabalu on Asia’s competitive pickleball map. The courts—designed to meet USA Pickleball’s international standards—form part of a 384‑acre seaside playground already famed for golf, yachting, and five‑star hospitality.
Sutera Harbour & Pickle Collective Partnership
The project is a collaboration between Sutera Harbour Group and local start‑up Pickle Collective, both intent on turning Sabah into a regional hub for wellness travel. Gerry D’Cruz, Deputy CEO of Sutera Harbour Group, captured the bigger vision:
“This is more than just a new court. It represents a meaningful partnership that promotes wellness, innovation, and community spirit.”
South China Sea Sunsets & Mount Kinabalu Views: Malaysia’s Best Pickleball Court
Framed by South China Sea sunsets and Mount Kinabalu on the horizon, the venue is already being hailed as the nation’s most picturesque spot to play. Launch‑day guest of honor, Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, didn’t hold back:
“With the view and setting offered at Sutera Harbour, I believe this is the best pickleball court in Malaysia. This new facility will bring excitement and enjoyment to the community. I hope DBKK will consider building more such facilities in the city.”
Fueling a Fast‑Growing Community
Local tennis‑and‑pickleball dual‑sport athlete Stefan Walter Sundang Alex (29) spoke for Sabah’s players:
“Pickleball is still very new in Kota Kinabalu, only introduced about two years ago, but the community has been growing steadily. The court here matches the standards found in Peninsular Malaysia… Pickleball requires training, skills and dedication.”
Regular exhibition matches, beginner clinics, and plans for quarterly open tournaments aim to close the gap with Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia—where events now pop up almost every weekend.
Why This Launch Matters
- Sports Tourism Boost: Packages that bundle resort stays with court time lure international visitors and domestic adventurers.
- Healthy Lifestyle Catalyst: Locals gain an accessible, low‑impact sport suitable for all ages—perfect for family bonding.
- Economic Ripple: Coaching jobs, gear sales, F&B foot traffic, and media coverage create fresh revenue streams.
- Destination Branding: Positions Kota Kinabalu as a vibrant lifestyle city, aligning with government goals for diversified tourism.
Final Rally
The opening of Pickle Collective’s courts proves that pickleball’s Asian surge is real—and Sabah is ready to rally. As the sport evolves from backyard pastime to serious competition, Sutera Harbour’s breathtaking facility invites everyone, from curious novices to pro‑level dinkers, to come play, connect, and soak in Sabah’s legendary sunsets. Game on!
