Why the MATTA Pickleball Grand Slam Matters for Malaysians
Andrew LeeSarawak is making bold strides in establishing itself as a premier hub for sports tourism, and the MATTA Pickleball Grand Slam (MPG2025) is leading the charge.
This event is not just a tournament - it’s a catalyst for economic growth, international exposure, and the rise of pickleball as a major international sporting attraction in the region.
A Historic Tournament in Sarawak
Set to take place from October 7-20 at PIKABOL Malaysia, MPG2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event.
- Prize Pool: RM100,000
- Participants: Over 1,350 players
- Visitors Expected: 2,600+
Image via UKAS Sarawak
The tournament will kick off with team events in the first week, followed by individual competitions, including the Men’s and Women’s Open events and a Junior Open in the second week.
In a major step for the sport, MATTA and the Malaysia Pickleball Association have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to foster long-term collaboration. The event is endorsed by the Malaysia Pickleball Association, Sarawak Pickleball Association, Kuching Pickleball Association and supported by the Sarawak Ministry of Youth & Sports and the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts.
Driving Economic Growth Through Sports Tourism
At the recent press conference, YB Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak, emphasized that MPG2025 will significantly boost Sarawak’s economy, benefiting local businesses while showcasing the state’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Image via UKAS Sarawak
MPG2025 is a prime example of how sports and tourism can create economic opportunities across multiple sectors:
- Boost for Local Businesses: Hotels, restaurants, and retailers will see increased revenue as thousands of visitors spend on accommodations, dining, and shopping.
- Job Creation & Opportunities: The tournament will generate employment in event management, security, logistics, and other supporting services, benefiting local vendors and entrepreneurs.
- Sponsorship & Brand Exposure: The RM100,000 prize pool enhances the tournament’s prestige, attracting corporate sponsors and media coverage, further establishing Malaysia as a destination for top-tier sporting events.
Pickleball’s Role in Malaysia’s Sports Tourism Strategy
As the MATTA Pickleball Grand Slam gains international traction, it is transforming from a grassroots movement into a structured, large-scale industry.
- A Gateway for International Tourism: Malaysia is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for pickleball players and fans worldwide.
- Strategic Partnerships for Long-Term Growth: The MOU between MATTA and the Malaysia Pickleball Association paves the way for MPG2025 to become an annual flagship event, ensuring long-term sustainability for the sport.
- Cultural Exchange & Global Recognition: By bringing together international and local players, the event not only fosters elite competition but also promotes cultural exchange, further enhancing Malaysia’s status as a world-class sporting destination.
The MATTA Pickleball Grand Slam is a blueprint for Malaysia’s future in sports tourism. As pickleball continues to grow, it offers a unique opportunity to diversify Malaysia’s tourism sector, attract investments, and position the country as a leader in global sports events.
By aligning sports with economic strategy, MPG2025 marks the beginning of a new era - one where emerging sports like pickleball become powerful drivers of tourism and economic development. With Malaysia at the forefront, the highest highs for pickleball’s economy are just getting started.
