MATTA Malaysia Pickleball Grand Slam 2025 is expected to position Malaysia as a premier sports tourism destination, attracting top international players while promoting inbound and domestic tourism. Photo Credit: MATTA
The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has announced the MATTA Malaysia Pickleball Grand Slam 2025 (MPG2025), the first international pickleball tournament of its kind in Malaysia.
Set to take place from 7-20 October 2025 at PIKABOL, Malaysia’s Pickleball Powerhouse in Kuching, Sarawak, this event is expected to position Malaysia as a premier sports tourism destination, attracting top international players while promoting inbound and domestic tourism.
A milestone for Malaysia’s sport tourism
MPG2025 is endorsed by the Malaysia Pickleball Association, Sarawak Pickleball Association, and Kuching Pickleball Association, with strong support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development Sarawak, and the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak.
The tournament aims to kickstart the development of pickleball as both a competitive sport and a recreational activity, further strengthening Malaysia’s appeal as a hub for sports-driven tourism.
MATTA has solidified its commitment to the sport by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysia Pickleball Association, marking the beginning of a long-term partnership to grow the sport nationwide and elevate Malaysia’s reputation as a sports tourism hub.
“As part of our commitment to promoting sports tourism, MATTA is taking the lead in establishing the Malaysia Pickleball Grand Slam as an annual event,” said MATTA president Nigel Wong. “This tournament not only elevates Malaysia’s standing in the international sports scene but also encourages inbound and domestic tourism, giving international players and visitors a good opportunity to experience our country’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. By integrating sports and tourism, we want to create a lasting impact on the economy and position Malaysia as a must-visit sports tourism hub.”
A grand stage for pickleball in Malaysia
MPG2025 is expected to attract over 1,350 participants and more than 2,600 visitors, contributing an estimated RM31.6 million in tourism spending. With a total prize pool of RM100,000 (US$22,600) – the largest in the region – the tournament is set to draw elite international players while showcasing Malaysia’s diverse tourism attractions.
The tournament will feature multiple categories, including team events and individual events of men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles, across different skill levels and age groups.
The Team Event will take place from 7–13 October, featuring 64 teams of 12 players each. The Individual Events including Junior Category will follow from 15–20 October, targeting 320 participants in the Individual Open and 192 in the Junior Category, making this a grand stage for both underdogs and professional players.