Pickleball’s SUKMA 2026 Entry Uncertain: The status of pickleball at the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) is still undecided and will depend on a vote by participating states, said Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh. The SUKMA Committee must approve all events, and pickleball must have at least six states participating to be included.
Decision Depends on State Votes
Yeoh stated that Selangor, as the host, has proposed a list of sports, but the final decision will be made closer to the tournament date.
“The SUKMA Committee requires that any event to be contested must have participation from at least six states. That is the main condition.” – (Yeoh)
She confirmed that the first SUKMA Committee meeting only finalized Selangor as the 2026 host and Kelantan for 2028. No decisions have been made regarding the specific events for the competition.
Concerns Over New Sports
Johor Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development, and Cooperatives Committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah urged the ministry to establish a clear policy to prioritize core sports that can secure international medals.
“I know pickleball is trending now, but I worry it may just be a passing trend, whereas we have core sports. The list of sports has been discussed, but in six months’ time there will be another discussion on the selected sports to be included. I understand that SUKMA 2026 will take place in August.” – (Johor Youth)
He added that the list of sports will be reviewed again in six months, with SUKMA 2026 expected to take place in August.
What’s Next?
The SUKMA Committee will continue discussions before finalizing the list of sports. If pickleball gains enough state support, it could be included in the games. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether the sport will be part of SUKMA 2026.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s SUKMA 2026 Entry Uncertain
The inclusion of pickleball in SUKMA 2026 is uncertain, depending on state votes. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh confirmed the sport must have at least six states participating. Johor’s sports chairman raised concerns over emerging sports trends. A final decision will be made closer to the tournament.
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