Malaysia Pickleball Association Challenges Suspension by Sports Commissioner
Dispute Over Suspension
The Malaysia Pickleball Association (MPA) is contesting its suspension imposed by the Sports Commissioner’s Office (SCO), asserting that it has adhered to all directives and has taken measures to rectify governance issues. The suspension, enacted under the Sports Development Act of 1997 on February 27, mandates the association to provide a justification within 30 days to avoid deregistration.
As reported by Twentytwo13, Sports Commissioner Arrifin Ghani indicated that the suspension stemmed from ongoing governance problems within the association, including alleged violations of its constitution. In response, the MPA stated that it had followed the SCO's guidance to conduct a remedial Annual General Meeting (AGM), which was held on January 13.
MPA president Delima Ibrahim emphasized that the association fully complied with the requirements set forth by the SCO for the AGM. She expressed gratitude for the support received from SCO officials throughout the remedial process.
The AGM led to the establishment of a new executive committee, which includes representatives from five affiliated state members, fulfilling the SCO's stipulations. The newly elected committee comprises Delima Ibrahim as president, Eric Hoo as deputy president, and Amir Farid Abdul Majid and Julitah Akabal as vice presidents. Sean Aziz Abdullah has been appointed as secretary-general, while Datuk Patrick Khoo will take on the role of treasurer. Khairol Azmi Yussof and Lo Liang Kheng are now committee members, with Farrell Choo serving as the founding president. Additionally, Datuk Sebastian Ting and Dr. Kelvin Yii have been designated as advisors.
At the subcommittee level, Associate Professor Dr. Mohamad Rahizam Abdul Rahim has been appointed as the development chairman, and Jenny Ting will act as the disciplinary chairwoman. Delima will also oversee competitions as chairwoman.
Arrifin previously mentioned that the suspension was warranted due to governance issues related to leadership transitions, committee appointments, and past AGMs that allegedly did not meet quorum requirements. Despite the suspension, he confirmed that the MPA remains the sole recognized national governing body for pickleball in Malaysia. The association plans to submit a formal response to the SCO within the stipulated 30-day timeframe.