Uncertainty Surrounds Pickleball’s Inclusion in SUKMA 2026

The future of pickleball at the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) hangs in the balance as the decision on its inclusion will depend on a vote by participating states. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh revealed that the SUKMA Committee requires at least six states to participate in order for pickleball to be included as an event.

With Selangor proposing a list of sports for the tournament, the final decision on pickleball’s inclusion will be made closer to the tournament date. However, concerns have been raised by Johor Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development, and Cooperatives Committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah regarding the prioritization of core sports that can secure international medals over emerging trends like pickleball.

The SUKMA Committee will continue discussions before finalizing the list of sports for the 2026 games, with a decision expected to be made in the coming months. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether pickleball will be part of SUKMA 2026, so stay tuned for updates on this developing story.