Why Malaysia May Lead Southeast Asia’s Pickleball Movement

After living 30 years in Europe and 30 more in North America, Jan Papi made a deliberate move to Asia - believing it to be the next epicenter of pickleball. 

"Vietnam’s Pickleball Exploded, But Malaysia Might Go Further".

That’s the bold prediction from Jan Papi, founder of the World Pickleball Championship (WPC), during a recent exclusive interview of Asia Voice of Pickleball with Pickle361 (to be published 29 Jul 2025).

Malaysia Edge in Terms of Infrastructure, Communication & Digital Literacy

Malaysia’s competitive edge, Papi says, lies not just in its players, but in its infrastructure, communication, and digital literacy. “Compared to Vietnam, Malaysians have fewer language barriers and stronger tech skills. 

That means players can register easily, organizers can submit results smoothly, and the system just works better,” he explained.

Image via WPC

One major challenge in developing pickleball in Asia has been the absence of clear pathways for player growth. “Governments need transparent selection processes,” Papi shared. “With this ranking system, Malaysia can finally show the world who its best players are - from juniors to seniors.”

WPC’s ranking structure is built on tiered tournaments and real match outcomes. Players gain points for each win, and higher-tier events (like Tier 4 or 5) give greater value. The system covers all age groups and skill levels, allowing everyone to feel included in a larger competitive ecosystem.

Papi also highlighted the need to avoid punishing players for losing. “Too many players avoid entering events because they’re afraid of their DUPR dropping. We flip that on its head. You don’t get penalized for trying. You get rewarded for showing up.”

An Inclusive Tournament for All Ages

WPC’s strategy is also deeply inclusive. Players in age brackets such as 35+, 50+, and 60+ are welcomed and celebrated, not sidelined. “We don’t see older players as just the ones funding tournaments. They get their share of trophies, recognition, and purpose,” he said.

As WPC expands deeper into Asia, Papi is unfazed by other tours entering the region. “We were here first. We’ve earned the trust of local communities, and we treat every tournament - no matter the size - with the same professionalism.”

He also commended the Malaysian pickleball scene’s leadership: “The way Pickle361 and MPA are building not just players but also media and infrastructure - it’s honestly world-class.”

With Asia rising fast and Malaysia leading the charge, WPC’s model of meaningful, inclusive, and transparent competition could be exactly what Southeast Asia needs to reach its full pickleball potential.

WPC Malaysia stop had recently concluded at The Pickle Grounds on 16 - 20 Jul 2025 with Pickle361 as the Official Media Partner.