A new era in Asian sports has officially begun. Malaysia proudly hosted the first-ever Asia Pickleball Summit (APS) that was held at One World Hotel, Petaling Jaya. This landmark event has united the global innovators, policymakers, and community leaders under one roof to spotlight pickleball’s rise as Asia’s fastest-growing sport. Organized by ReSkills EdTech, powered by MAXIS, and endorsed by the Ministry of Youth & Sports Malaysia, the summit was more than a sporting affair. It was a powerful convergence of education, technology, and regional collaboration, marking Malaysia as the beating heart of pickleball in Asia.
Why Did ReSkills Host the Asia Pickleball Summit?
At the core of the summit was ReSkills, Malaysia’s homegrown online learning platform. It is driven by a mission to empower youth through education and sport. Founder Jin Tan shared:
“We are promoting this sport to create more possibilities for Asia’s youth through empowerment through sports.”
Jin Tan, Founder and APS Initiator
So, what is the big deal about pickleball? In just 90 days, Malaysia has recorded 57,555 pickleball activities, 3,916 clubs formed and 143,269 active players. This record is more than just a number. Yet, it is a national movement fueled by community, digital learning, and inclusive participation, proving pickleball’s potential as both a physical and educational pursuit.
Global Voices That Shaped APS2025
From world-renowned athletes to education and tech pioneers, all gathered with a single vision, which is to make pickleball a force for change. The summit brought together 500+ attendees and featured 28 international leaders from 14 countries, including representatives from the USA, Japan, India, Singapore, and more. Among the notable speakers are:
- Steve Kuhn – Founder of Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) / Major League Pickleball (MLP), USA
- Rafael Filippini – CEO of Gearbox, USA
- Arvind Prabhoo – President of International Pickleball Federation & All India Pickleball Association, India
- Jessica Vo – Co-Founder of Facolox Vietnam, Vietnam
- Neem Shamsuddin – Malaysia’s No. 1 Women’s Pickleball Player, Malaysia
Transformative Outcomes of APS25
Pickleball is not just a game but it is a game changer. With ReSkills championing sports as education, pickleball becomes more than recreation. It is a tool for empowering youth, promoting cross-cultural exchange and building inclusive communities. Supported by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Malaysia, APS25 reflects the government’s commitment to integrating pickleball into national development. Minister YB Hannah Yeoh emphasized:
“Pickleball is not just a sport, it’s an opportunity to redefine education, community building, and youth empowerment.”
YB Hannah Yeoh, Minister of Youth & Sports Malaysia
As pickleball is officially recognized as a government-endorsed sport in 2023, it is now qualifying for government funding, sports grants, and tax relief up to RM1,000. Also, the government’s plans are underway to introduce the sport in schools and national games to develop talent from a young age.
Sports as Education – ReSkills Ignites a New Learning Era
APS was not just an event, it was the launchpad for a movement. APS sparked fresh collaborations across sectors, including healthcare, education, business, and digital platforms. The APS Organizing Chairperson stated,
“Sports is education in motion. APS is where thought meets action, and Malaysia proudly stands at its epicenter.”
Ken Lim, APS Organizing Chairperson
Maxis Powers Innovation – A Symbol of National Pride
Leading tech innovator Maxis Berhad stood tall as the title sponsor, helping bring APS to life. Their support symbolizes corporate Malaysia’s belief in the power of sports innovation and community upliftment. The sponsorship is not just corporate but it is a national pride in motion.
Looking Ahead: Pickleball’s Long-Term Future
With Malaysia’s aim to lead the ASEAN 2025, the momentum from APS25 plays a vital role in promoting unity through sports diplomacy. For ReSkills, this is just the beginning of a long-term journey to elevate pickleball into a symbol of learning, connection, and well-being. They also committed to launching a structured pickleball curriculum and expanding grassroots participation.
Get involved and be part of the transformation. To learn more about APS and how you can be part of the movement, visit http://www.asiapickleballsummit.com/.
Let’s rally together to make pickleball not just a sport but a movement that unites Asia.
