Malaysia Open 2026: A Milestone for Pickleball's Growth

The inaugural Malaysia Open 2026 has successfully concluded in Shah Alam, marking a significant milestone for pickleball in Malaysia. With a prize pool of RM100,000 and participation from players of all ages, the event showcased the sport's growing popularity. Organizers emphasized the importance of community and youth involvement, with many young players competing. Notable winners included Pauline Ng Jia Hui and Ethan Chan. The event's success is seen as a promising sign for the future of pickleball, with hopes for its inclusion in major multi-sport events.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 18:47 IST

Inaugural Tournament Highlights

The first-ever Oriental Daily News Malaysia Open 2026 wrapped up in Shah Alam after three exciting days, attracting numerous participants from all over the nation and showcasing the rising popularity of pickleball in Malaysia. Taking place at the Grand Pickleball Arena from June 12 to 14, the event featured a substantial prize pool of RM100,000 and included competitions across various categories such as Junior, Novice, Intermediate, and Open.

The tournament successfully united players of diverse ages and skill levels, with organizers and stakeholders interpreting the impressive turnout as a clear indication of the sport's rapid expansion. Pattrik Ting, Director of Editorial Coordination at Oriental Daily Sdn Bhd, expressed gratitude towards sponsors and partners for their crucial support in making the event a reality. He specifically acknowledged Gold Sponsors redONE Mobile and Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre, along with Agrobank, Honda Malaysia, and RHB Insurance for their confidence and backing.

Ting emphasized that the tournament aimed to serve as more than just a competitive event. "This tournament was crafted not only as a competitive platform but also to nurture community, learning, and camaraderie within the burgeoning pickleball scene," he stated.

Datuk Wan Khalik Wan Mohamed, a representative from the Malaysia Pickleball Association, highlighted the significant participation of young players as a particularly encouraging trend. "While many still perceive pickleball as a sport for older individuals, the robust involvement of children and youth here indicates the sport's growth. This is a promising sign for pickleball's future," he remarked.

Wan Khalik is optimistic that the sport's development could lead to its inclusion in major multi-sport events. "With ongoing progress, pickleball could eventually find its place in significant competitions like the SEA Games, Asian Games, and potentially even the Olympics," he added.

The tournament featured a total of 10 championship categories. Notable winners included Khai Jie and Asher Chen in Men's Doubles Novice, Ethan Chan in Junior Boys Singles, and Shahara Antartika and Avril Foong in Women's Doubles Intermediate. Pauline Ng Jia Hui stood out by winning both the Mixed Doubles Intermediate and Mixed Doubles Open titles.

Organizers noted that the combination of strong participation, increasing sponsor interest, and heightened youth engagement has laid a robust foundation for future editions of the Malaysia Open, as pickleball continues to draw new players nationwide.