‘PFC Open 2025’ A Platform to Uncover Perak’s Talents for the Global Stage
By Balqis Jazimah Zahari
Photo: Ipoh PFC
IPOH: The international-level sports event, the PFC Open 2025 Championship, held recently at the Ipoh Pickleball Fun Club, is believed to be an excellent platform to uncover new talents and elevate them to the global stage.
Perak State Executive Councillor for Housing and Local Government, Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, said that the tournament is not just a gathering of players for matches, but also a key initiative in developing local talent, especially among youth in Perak.
“This championship is the ideal platform to discover new talent with the potential to be showcased — and who may one day compete on the world stage.
“It marks the beginning of nurturing more Pickleball athletes who can represent the state in national and international competitions, including the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in the future,” she said.
Sandrea also noted that several other states, such as Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Sarawak, and Penang — have already begun advancing the sport of Pickleball.
“Therefore, Perak must not be left behind.
“Just imagine if we can produce world-class Pickleball athletes from Perak — it would elevate the state’s name to a higher level and bring pride to the nation,” she added.
She made these during a speech on behalf of Perak Chief Minister during official opening of the Pickleball Open Championship and the launch of the Ipoh Pickleball Fun Club facility at Ipoh Pickleball Fun Club, Greentown, here recently.
In addition to its health and talent development aspects, Sandrea emphasized that the tournament also brings significant added value to the tourism sector.
“With participants and visitors coming from other states and even abroad, this event becomes a catalyst for sports tourism.
“This will indirectly boost tourist arrivals to Perak,” she said.
She added that visitors don’t just come to compete or spectate, they also spend on accommodation, dining, transportation, and tourist attractions in and around Ipoh and the greater Perak area.
“This creates a direct economic spillover for the local community, from small business owners and hoteliers to players in the tourism industry.
“The state government fully supports the concept of sports tourism, as it aligns with efforts to position Perak as a top travel destination,” she said.
Sandrea concluded that Perak’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, and unique cuisine will shine even brighter when paired with national and international sports events.
The two-day championship attracted around 280 participants from across Malaysia and neighboring Singapore.
