Putrajaya Junior Pickleball Open 2025: Malaysia’s Rising Stars Take the Court

Pickleball in Malaysia has been on a steady rise, but the Putrajaya Junior Pickleball Open 2025 proved that the future of the sport lies firmly in the hands of the youth.

On 24th August 2025, the indoor courts of The Pickle Vibe, Seri Kembangan, Selangor were alive with energy as 74 junior athletes representing seven states rallied, smashed, and volleyed their way through a tournament designed to shape the next generation of champions.

Organized by the Putrajaya Pickleball Association (PUPA), this national-level event was more than a competition; it was a milestone in Malaysia’s journey to establish a strong foundation for junior development in pickleball.

The event also marked a turning point for the sport in Malaysia. With growing participation, especially among youth, it’s clear that pickleball is no longer just a hobby but it’s becoming a movement. Events like these are planting the seeds for long term growth, inspiring kids to dream bigger and aim higher.

A Landmark in Junior Sports Development

Unlike many emerging sports that struggle to gain traction at the school level, pickleball has found early recognition in Malaysia. The support of the Ministry of Education (MOE) played a central role in elevating this tournament’s impact.

Speaking at the event, Puan Norhamimi binti Othman, Assistant Director of the Sports, Co-curriculum, and Arts Division (BSKK), emphasized how pickleball fits perfectly into the MOE’s broader vision:

“The Putrajaya Junior Pickleball Open is a meaningful effort to expand pickleball among school students. By including the sport in the Sports Promotion Program, students now have opportunities to collect PAJSK points. This aligns with our goal of ensuring every student participates in at least one sport.”

Her remarks underscored the growing legitimacy of pickleball not just as a recreational activity, but as a recognized sport with pathways for student achievement.

From Grassroots to Global Dreams

For Ir. Amir Farid Abdul Majid, President of the PUPA, the mission is clear: nurture talent at the grassroots.

“Junior tournaments like this are critical because they’re the breeding ground for players who will one day represent Malaysia on the international stage. Without grassroots development, there can be no sustainable growth of the sport in our country.”

His statement reflects a long-term strategy that mirrors the growth stories of other sports in Malaysia building from school-level programs, developing junior circuits, and ultimately producing athletes capable of competing at SEA Games and beyond.

Competition Meets Camaraderie

While medals and trophies were on the line, the weekend also revealed something far deeper: camaraderie. Young players from different states not only battled fiercely on the courts but also built friendships, exchanged training tips, and grew their love for the sport.

Parents and coaches filled the sidelines, creating a festival-like atmosphere that demonstrated pickleball’s unique ability to unite communities. For many families, it was their first time experiencing a national-level pickleball event, and the excitement was palpable.

Powered by Community & Corporate Support

The success of the Putrajaya Junior Pickleball Open 2025 was also made possible through the collaboration of local and corporate partners who see pickleball as more than just a sport, but a movement.

Among the sponsors and supporters were:

• The Pickle Vibe (host venue)
• FELET International Holdings Sdn. Bhd.  (sports equipment brand)
• Sushi Plus Sdn. Bhd. 
• Reskills Edtech Sdn. Bhd.
• Stella Kasih Medical Centre
• One 2 Go Travel & Tours
• Tekadia Sdn. Bhd. (GUA. Juicery)
• Klinik Pergigian Dental Republik
• The Vida World Sdn. Bhd.
• The Pickle Parlour Sdn. Bhd. (Franklin Malaysia)
• Gamuda Land
• Lemang Panjang
• Putrajaya Care
  
  

Their involvement reflects how pickleball is creating opportunities for businesses to connect with active, family-oriented communities across Malaysia.

Why This Tournament Matters

The Putrajaya Junior Pickleball Open 2025 wasn’t just about crowning winners—it was about planting seeds. It showed parents, schools, and policymakers that pickleball can offer students more than fitness; it builds discipline, resilience, and pathways for future achievement.

With pickleball now recognized in schools, supported by the Ministry of Education, and championed by grassroots associations, Malaysia is setting the stage for a powerful next chapter. The players who competed this weekend could very well be the names we see on the international podiums of tomorrow.

While this enthusiasm is rapidly growing, a significant challenge remains: the lack of dedicated courts in Putrajaya. Establishing more facilities is crucial to nurturing grassroots involvement and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sport. The young players who competed could very well be the names we see on international podiums tomorrow, but only if we provide them with the platform to grow.

The message is loud and clear: the future of Malaysian pickleball is in good hands, and it's time to invest in that future.