TAPAH: The debut of the Tapah Pickleball Competition exceeded expectations by successfully attracting 27 teams, demonstrating a high level of community interest in the sport despite the tournament being held with limited facilities.
Sarawak Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, who is also Tarat Assemblyman, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, described the success of drawing 27 teams for a first-time event as an impressive and unexpected achievement.
“This participation proves that the most important factor is the players," he remarked during the opening ceremony on Saturday. "Even though this tournament has only recently been introduced to the area, the response received has been very encouraging.”
He further praised the initiative of the Tapah Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) for their creativity in converting the local multipurpose hall into pickleball courts.
This move aligns with current sporting trends and the community’s need for inclusive recreational activities.
According to the Minister, utilising the hall for paid sporting activities not only encourages the public to adopt a healthy lifestyle but also has the potential to generate revenue for the maintenance of public facilities.
This sustainable model ensures that funds, collected in RM, are reinvested back into the community's infrastructure.
Despite only providing three courts and facing budget constraints, the tournament saw a remarkable turnout with 27 registered teams.
The competition featured 10 teams in the Men's Open category, nine in the Mixed Veterans, and eight in the Women's Open.
Also in attendance were Serian Division Deputy Resident, Khalid Manap, Political Secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Damen Rejek, representative of the Siburan District Officer, George Harison, Siburan District Council Secretary, Hiu Kee Seng, and other invited dignitaries.- UKASnews
