PENANG is set to host the World Pickleball Championship (WPC) 2026 this month, positioning the state as a regional sports hub while also boosting tourism and economic activity.
The championship, organised by Pickleball Global, will be held from April 16 to 19 at Pickle By The Sea, along Gurney Drive.
It is expected to draw between 700 and 800 players from across the world.
The Penang leg will serve as the opening stop of the WPC Malaysia Series 2026, a multi-city initiative that will also take place in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru.
Penang sports committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said the state was ready to host the international tournament, citing adequate facilities and preparations on the ground.
“We have the infrastructure and venues in place, and from a logistics standpoint, we are working to ensure everything runs smoothly,” he said.
He added that reduction of flights linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East would “not really” affect the participation of players.
Meanwhile, VitaHealth (Malaysia and Singapore) chief executive officer Dr KS Beh said the company’s role as the event’s official nutrition partner aligned with its mission to promote healthier lifestyles.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to encouraging healthier living through nutrition and community engagement.
“For more than seven years, we have been dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives.
“Through this initiative, we hope to support youth development and build stronger communities,” she said.
Beh said sporting events such as WPC played an important role in promoting physical and mental wellness.
“When people move more, connect more and take care of their health, communities become stronger,” she added.
The championship is designed to be inclusive, with categories catering to players aged 19 to 60 and above.
It is expected to raise the profile of pickleball in Malaysia while stimulating local tourism and community engagement through sport.
Also present at the press conference were Penang State Sports Council director Harry Chai and Pickleball Global founder and chief executive officer Jan Papi.
