Malaysia’s Voice Goes Global: Dr. Kelvin Yii Appointed to UWPF Board of Directors
Sureena Shree ChandrasekarMalaysia has made history in international pickleball. YB Dr. Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, Member of Parliament from Sarawak, has been elected to the inaugural Board of Directors of the Unified World Pickleball Federation (UWPF), giving Malaysia its first-ever seat at the sport’s highest governing body.
The landmark election took place during the UWPF’s first Annual General Meeting (AGM), hosted by the International Pickleball Federation (IPF). Dr. Yii received nine votes, joining six other directors from Japan, Spain, China, Italy, and South Africa. Together, this new leadership team will guide the sport’s global growth and strengthen its bid for Olympic recognition.
A Proud Milestone for Malaysia
For Malaysia and Sarawak, Dr. Yii’s appointment is a defining moment. As he is also an advisor to MPA, it elevates the nation’s presence in international sport and ensures its voice will help shape pickleball’s future worldwide.
“This is a proud moment for Malaysia and Sarawak. Dr. Kelvin Yii’s leadership will ensure Malaysia contributes meaningfully to the global pickleball movement. Together with the UWPF, we look forward to advancing pickleball’s growth and making the Olympic dream a reality,” said Delima Ibrahim, President of the Malaysia Pickleball Association (MPA).
Delima recalled meeting Dr Kelvin at the Pickleball Summit earlier this year and since then recognized Dr. Kelvin's passion for Pickleball; so after consulting our advisor/former MPA President, Farrell Choo, "I didn't hesitate to put Dr. Kelvin forward as Malaysia's nominee to the UWPF Board endorsed by Mr Arvind of WPF." she shared.
From Sarawak to the World
Pickleball’s journey in Malaysia began in 2019 in Miri, Sarawak, and has since expanded nationwide through the efforts of the MPA. The sport now enjoys one of the fastest growth rates in Asia, supported by a thriving community of players.
Dr. Yii, reflecting on his election, said:
“It is a true honor to represent Malaysia and Sarawak on the inaugural UWPF Board. Pickleball has grown from humble beginnings in Miri to becoming one of the fastest-rising sports in our nation. As part of the Board, I will work tirelessly to ensure every country has a voice, that our sport is inclusive and accessible, and that together we take bold steps toward Olympic recognition.”
About the UWPF
The Unified World Pickleball Federation (UWPF) was officially formed in June 2025, uniting the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) into a single body headquartered in Switzerland. Its mission is to ensure transparent governance, drive international growth, and lead pickleball’s eventual inclusion in global multi-sport events such as the Olympic Games.
A Historic First for Malaysia
Dr. Yii’s appointment signals more than representation it is a symbol of Malaysia’s determination to contribute to pickleball’s global story. From its origins in Sarawak to a place on the world stage, Malaysia is now helping to write the next chapter of this fast-growing sport.
Congratulations to Dr. Kelvin Yii, a leader who will carry Malaysia’s passion, vision, and voice into the heart of international pickleball.
For more information on the UWPF announcement, visit www.theipf.org.
