By Anne Das
Pickleball has officially entered the school system in Perak. The programme, initiated by the Perak State Education Department (JPN Perak), aims to introduce students to one of the world’s fastest growing sports, beginning with 20 schools statewide.
The rollout brings together a local coaching academy, 002 Pickleball Club and Academy, and international paddle brand Selkirk, which has stepped forward with a significant equipment sponsorship.
JPN Perak first approached 002 Pickleball Club and Academy in March to help design and deliver a structured pickleball programme for students. Since then, the academy has visited schools, conducted demonstrations, trained teachers and set up basic development guidelines so students can learn the sport safely and correctly.
A handover ceremony was held recently at AC Hotel by Marriott Ipoh, where students, teachers and school representatives gathered for the official distribution of equipment.
During his speech, the Director of the Perak State Education Department, Tuan Zulkafli bin Mohamed Mokhtar, expressed his support for introducing pickleball in schools. “It’s a simple and safe sport for students, and this programme will help more of them stay active and engaged,” he said.
At the event, two students and one PE teacher from each participating school received Selkirk paddles valued at more than RM1,000 each, along with a supply of pickleballs. The sponsorship provides schools with premium, professional-grade equipment, allowing sessions to begin without delay.
002 Pickleball Club and Academy, an Ipoh-based coaching team led by founder Colin Tan, has been actively introducing the sport to families, schools and recreational groups across Perak.
Their work includes coaching clinics, beginners’ classes, teacher engagement and community outreach. The academy also works closely with local venues to create accessible playing spaces for new learners.
According to Colin Tan, founder of 002 Pickleball, the appeal of pickleball lies in how simple it is to start. “It’s easy to learn, gentle on the joints and suitable for mixed ages. Most students pick up the basics in a single session,” he said. “Teachers are also showing strong interest, which makes it easier for schools to run regular PE sessions.”
With this new school-based initiative, Perak becomes one of the more active pickleball states in Malaysia. Introducing pickleball at the school level gives students early exposure and connects them to a growing network of state and international tournaments.
The partnership between JPN Perak, 002 Pickleball Club and Academy and Selkirk is expected to continue as more schools express interest. Plans are already underway to expand training support for teachers and introduce development sessions for students who want to pursue the sport more seriously.
Pickleball has grown into a global movement, and Perak’s students are now part of that story. As the game continues to spread across the state, families, teachers and the wider community are encouraged to try it for themselves.
For enquiries, coaching or collaborations, reach out to 002 Pickleball Club and Academy at 012 820 2767 or 002pickleballclubandacademy@gmail.com . You can also find them on their socials for updates and events.
