Pickleball is becoming increasingly popular among the public, the Indonesian Pickleball Federation (PB IPF) is expanding by opening a number of pickleball courts in South Jakarta and the tourist city of Cileungsi, West Java.
IPF Deputy Chairman Harlin Rahardjo said that the federation took this step to provide space for the public to play pickleball.
"Almost every month, there are inter-community championships now held on pickleball courts. We will continue to promote this throughout the province to increase pickleball's recognition and popularity," Harlin said in an official statement Thursday.
Going forward, PB IPF is also encouraging pickleball to enter schools because this sport is very relevant to the school environment.
Harlin Rahardjo believes pickleball is highly relevant for school environments. Its size is comparable to that of a badminton court, and its team format makes it an ideal alternative for student sports development.
"Pickleball is suitable for schools. We want to have an inter-school team championship, open to everyone. That way, early childhood development can grow throughout Indonesia," said Harlin.
Harlin hopes the student pickleball ecosystem will develop like a successful school basketball league, with the full support of teachers, coaches, principals, and local governments. To that end, Harlin encourages all parties—including the media—to support the promotion and development of pickleball in schools and regions.
"I need the support of everyone, including fellow journalists, to ensure widespread and lively outreach. The goal is simple: pickleball will be well-known to the public, enjoyed by people of all ages, and become part of a healthy lifestyle in Indonesia," said Harlin.
