THE promotion of sports, such as pickleball, must take into consideration community needs.
Sibu Amateur Athletes Association chairman Dr Hii Sui Cheng said proper planning was important as pickleball gained popularity.
Games were often played from sunrise to sunset, he said, with some courts located in residential areas.
“According to media reports, residents in Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, have complained about the piercing ‘pop-pop’ sound of pickleball paddles when courts are situated directly in front of their homes.
“In Ho Chi Minh City, the noise has reportedly frustrated residents, as games continue until midnight.
“Some have suffered sleepless nights, while others have found the situation unbearable and chosen to relocate,” he said at Pickleball Fun Tournament 2026 held in Sibu, Sarawak.
Dr Hii, who also sponsored the tournament, highlighted the need for community engagement when introducing new sports.
“While pickleball offers health, social and recreational benefits, these should not come at the expense of others’ well-being.
“By ensuring suitable locations, reasonable operating hours and open dialogue with the community, we can encourage the growth of the sport while maintaining harmony and quality of life for all.”
In the tournament, Simon Ling and Thomas Goh emerged champions after defeating Andy Lau and Alex Lee in straight sets, 11-7 and 11-9.
The winners received RM150 and a medal each, while Lau and Lee took home RM100 and a medal each.
Third place went to Kelvin Ting and Mervyn Ting who beat Franco Ling and Nancy Lee 21-16.
Kelvin and Mervyn collected RM50 and a medal each, while Ling and Lee received RM40 and a medal each.
The competition was organised by Sibu Great United Club in collaboration with Sunnyou Sibu Pickleball Club.
