BINTULU: Bintulu residents now have the opportunity to enjoy a new sport that is increasingly popular internationally with the opening of the Kenyalang Pickleball Central in Bintulu on Saturday.

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu, stressed his ministry's commitment in supporting the development of the sport of pickleball, which is gaining ground in Sarawak.

Although existing badminton and tennis courts are widely used for pickleball activities, Dato Gerald said there is still no court specifically built for the sport.

"The demand for teaching and organising pickleball activities is increasing. It is not impossible that this sport will be competed in the SUKMA Games in the future," he said when officiating the Kenyalang Pickleball Central on Saturday.

Meanwhile, he said that Bintulu, which is rapidly developing as a business hub, needs more leisure centres for the community.

"This effort not only builds sports talent, but also contributes to a healthy lifestyle. I am confident that Bintulu will be known as the 'home of Pickleball' in the future," he said. - UKASnews