Hannah Yeoh Announces Free Play for Malaysia’s Youth at Pickleball Stadium in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s young picklers just scored big!

Pickleball, the sport that’s been taking the world by storm, is now more accessible to the country’s youth than ever. Thanks to a groundbreaking initiative, young Malaysians can enjoy free access to not only professional pickleball facilities at the newly minted Pickleball Stadium at Kenanga Wholesale City, but also training and expert coaching.

Bringing Pickleball Closer to Malaysia’s Young Picklers

This initiative is made possible by E-Motion Sdn Bhd through a private-public partnership, paving the way for a new generation of players to discover this fast-paced, addictive game.

For those unfamiliar, pickleball is a unique blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s easy to learn, incredibly fun, and suits players of all skill levels. The best part? You don’t need expensive gear—just a paddle, a plastic ball, and a court. That’s exactly what this initiative aims to provide: an open invitation for young players to dive into the game without financial barriers holding them back.

This game-changing move comes from a collaborative effort between sports organisations, local councils, and pickleball enthusiasts who want to see the sport thrive in Malaysia. By making courts freely available, they hope to cultivate a strong community of players, nurture young talent, and even position Malaysia as a rising force in international pickleball.

“This initiative goes in line with the MADANI administration aspiration, as well as the National Sports Vision 2030 to ensure free access to students and encourage an active lifestyle through partnerships with the government and private sector,” said Hannah Yeoh, Youth and Sports Minister of Malaysia, in a Facebook post announcing the development.

“Each one of these courts in not just a facility, but a beacon of hope to birth a MADANI generation who is active, committed and united. My hope is that we continue to use sports as a national unity language,” she further stated as she called on associations, entrepreneurs, and the private sector to “join forces with the Ministry of Youth and Sports as a strategic partner” and “invest in our youth through these CSR initiatives to empower Malaysia as a sporting nation.”

A Golden Opportunity for Young Picklers in Malaysia

For young Malaysians looking to stay active, have fun, and meet new friends, this is a golden opportunity. Unlike traditional sports that may require years of practice to play competitively, pickleball is easy to pick up in just a few sessions. The mix of strategy, agility, and quick reflexes makes every match exciting. Plus, the social aspect is a huge draw—whether you’re playing singles or doubles, it’s all about good vibes and great competition.

The noble initiative is expected gained traction, with students, young professionals, and even families expected to head on over to the courts—16 professional-grade courts, to be exact—starting 2 April 2025. The courts will be available for free play on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

With free access to courts, more young Malaysians can now step onto the court, paddle in hand, and experience the magic of pickleball. Whether they dream of competing or just want to play for fun, this initiative ensures that the door is wide open.

So, if you haven’t tried pickleball yet, now’s the time. Grab a paddle, hit the court, and see what the hype is all about. And in the case of Malaysia’s youth, the playing venue is even free!