The Pickleball Playground in Shah Alam was recently transformed into a hub of movement, laughter, and competition as The Bragg Pickleball Challenge 2025, organised by Bragg Malaysia in collaboration with BIG Pharmacy & CARiNG Pharmacy, brought together over 160 players and 300 spectators for a day that was as much about community as it was about sport.

Image Credit: Bragg Malaysia

Pickleball, a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping pong has been gaining traction across Southeast Asia. Once seen as a niche pastime, it’s now emerging as a sport with serious potential for mass appeal. The Bragg Pickleball Challenge 2025 marked one of the most visible efforts yet to introduce the game to Malaysian families, fitness enthusiasts, and curious newcomers.

A sport for everyone

The Bragg Pickleball Challenge 2025 which was held on September 6, featured four main categories: Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and a light-hearted Exhibition Match between Bragg staff and teams from BIG Pharmacy and CARiNG Pharmacy.

While the competitive spirit was palpable, the atmosphere remained inclusive and welcoming, especially for first-timers, especially thanks to the presence of Kid Chan (@iamkidchan), a local pickleball coach and influencer, who helped demystify the sport for many.

Image Credit: Bragg Malaysia

The event wasn’t short on star power. Prem Shanker(@premosupremo), Hitz FM radio announcer, brought his signature energy to the venue, engaging with attendees and amplifying the event’s reach online, while lifestyle influencer Jane Teh (@janeravissante) also made an appearance, sharing behind-the-scenes moments with her followers.

Wellness meets retail activation

Bragg Malaysia, known for its wellness products like Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, used the event to reinforce its brand ethos: promoting active, healthy lifestyles through real-world engagement. At the heart of the event were health-focused products such as Sunblast Organic Juice and Bob’s Red Mill, which were prominently featured.

Image Credit: Bragg Malaysia

Meanwhile, retail partners BIG Pharmacy and CARiNG Pharmacy played a visible role, not just in the exhibition matches but also in distributing exclusive goodies to participants and winners. 

Business Unit Director of Beauty, Baby & Health Food category of BIG Caring Group, Mr Foo Fung Jiun said, "Health is not only about treatment, but also about building habits and creating shared experiences that promote happiness and wellbeing. Through this tournament, we hope to show that being active can also be fun, inclusive, and sustainable for everyone.”

Looking ahead

While the spotlight fell on influencers and exhibition matches, the real energy came from everyday Malaysians, kids, parents, retirees, and first-time players who showed up, gave it their all, and left with wide smiles and sore arms.

Image Credit: Bragg Malaysia

The mix of ages and backgrounds was a reminder of what makes pickleball so appealing: it’s competitive without being intense, and social without being overwhelming.

As the final matches wrapped up and medals were handed out, Bragg Malaysia hinted that this was just the beginning. “We’re not treating this as a one-off,” said a representative. 

“Pickleball has real potential to bring people together, and we want to be part of that journey.”

Image Credit: Bragg Malaysia

For now, one thing’s clear: pickleball has found its footing in Malaysia, and it’s not going anywhere.

Whether you're looking for a new way to stay active or just curious about what the hype is all about, pickleball is worth a try. It’s fun, beginner-friendly, and if the Bragg Challenge is anything to go by, is full of good vibes.

Keep an eye out for future events, and follow Bragg Malaysia on Instagram to stay in the loop.

Featured Image Credit: Bragg Malaysia