KENINGAU: More than 100 participants took to the court for the Ken Hwa PIBG Pickleball Championship 2026, held over three days from Aug 22 to 24 at Dewan Ken Hwa, here.
The championship formed the main activity of the Healthy Lifestyle Strengthening Workshop organised by the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) of SMJK Ken Hwa, bringing together students, parents, teachers and support staff from the Upper Interior District Education Office (PPD Pedalaman Atas).
More than just a sporting competition, the programme provided an opportunity for the school community and the public to come together through an activity that promotes an active and healthy lifestyle while strengthening relationships between the school, PIBG, parents and the wider community.
The championship was officiated by Datin Tengku Aini Tengku Ibrahim, wife of Deputy Finance Minister and Bingkor Assemblyman Dato’ Sr Mohd Ishak Ayub, who attended as guest of honour.
Also present as special guest was Datin Tengku Adlina Marita Tengku Adlin, wife of Sabah Energy Corporation Sdn Bhd chairman Datuk Annuar Ayub Aman.
Among those attending were Ken Hwa School Board chairman Datuk Peter Ma, PIBG chairman Nelson Ng, PIBG vice-chairman Misha Ho, SMJK Ken Hwa principal Anthony Chong, SJK (C) Yuk Yin Keningau headmaster Chong You Xiang, as well as school management representatives, PIBG members and participants.
The event was also supported by Mohd Rasyid Abdul Ghani, chairman of the Ken Hwa Pickleball Club, and programme coordinator Jessica Fu Min Fuah, who oversaw the smooth running of the championship and related activities.
The strong turnout demonstrated the growing appeal of pickleball as a sport that can bring together people of different ages and backgrounds.
With students, parents, teachers and members of the community sharing the same court, the championship created an informal environment for participants to interact, build friendships and strengthen cooperation beyond the classroom.
The initiative also highlighted the important role schools can play as community hubs, providing spaces where families and the wider community can participate in activities that promote physical well-being, social interaction and a positive lifestyle.
For the Ken Hwa community, the significance of the championship went beyond the final scores.
Every rally, point and match provided an opportunity to build connections, while the shared experience of competition created a stronger sense of belonging among participants.
Ultimately, the success of the championship was not measured solely by those who lifted trophies, but also by the number of friendships formed, relationships strengthened and lives brought together through sport.
On the pickleball court, everyone may compete for points — but the greater victory is building a healthier, more connected and supportive community.
